Catalyst systems for production of alpha olefin oligomers and polymers

ABSTRACT

Catalyst compositions containing N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine transition metal compounds are disclosed. Methods for making these transition metal compounds and for using such compounds in catalyst compositions for the polymerization or oligomerization of alpha olefins also are provided.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Mono-1-olefins (alpha olefins) can be polymerized with catalyst systems employing titanium, zirconium, vanadium, chromium, or other transition metals impregnated on a variety of support materials, often in the presence of activators. There exists a need and a constant search to develop new polymerization catalysts for alpha olefins, catalyst activation processes, and methods of making and using catalysts that will provide enhanced catalytic activities, selectivities, or new polymeric materials tailored to specific end uses.

To that end, the present invention relates to amine bis(phenolate) transition metal compounds (e.g., N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine transition metal compounds) and catalyst compositions employing such compounds for the polymerization or oligomerization of alpha olefins.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify required or essential features of the claimed subject matter. Nor is this summary intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

The present invention generally relates to new catalyst compositions, methods for preparing catalyst compositions, methods for using the catalyst compositions to polymerize/oligomerize alpha olefins, the alpha olefin oligomer products produced using such catalyst compositions, and articles produced using these alpha olefin oligomer products. In particular, embodiments of the present invention are directed to amine bis(phenolate) or N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine transition metal compounds, and catalyst compositions employing such transition metal compounds. Catalyst compositions of the present invention which contain these transition metal compounds can be used to produce, for example, alpha olefin polymer/oligomer products from monomers such as 1-hexene, 1-octene, 1-decene, and the like.

In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, disclosed and described herein are transition metal compounds having the formula:

In formula (Ia), M can be Ti, Zr, or Hf, and X¹ and X² independently can be a monoanionic ligand. Each R^(B) and R^(C) independently can be a halide, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group, wherein p and q independently can be 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4. R^(A) in formula (Ia) can be a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group or a C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, disclosed and described herein are transition metal compounds having the formula:

In formula (IIa), M can be Ti, Zr, or Hf, and X¹ and X² independently can be a monoanionic ligand. Each R^(B) and R^(C) independently can be a halide, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group, wherein p and q independently are 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4. L in formula (IIa) can be a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylene group, while D can be a chemical group comprising at least one of nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur.

In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention, disclosed and described herein are transition metal compounds having the formula:

In formula (IIIa), M can be Ti, Zr, or Hf, and X¹ and X² independently can be a monoanionic ligand. Each R^(B) and R^(C) independently can be a halide, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group, wherein p and q independently can be 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4. R^(E) in formula (IIIa) can be a C₂ to C₃₆ alkenyl group.

Catalyst compositions containing these transition metal complexes are also provided by the present invention. In one embodiment, a catalyst composition is disclosed which comprises an amine bis(phenolate) or N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine transition metal complex and an activator-support. Optionally, this catalyst composition can further comprise a co-catalyst. In some aspects, the co-catalyst can comprise an organoaluminum compound, while in other aspects, the co-catalyst can comprise an aluminoxane compound, an organoboron or organoborate compound, an ionizing ionic compound, an organoaluminum compound, an organozinc compound, an organomagnesium compound, an organolithium compound, or combinations thereof. More than one co-catalyst can be present in catalyst compositions disclosed herein.

The present invention also contemplates and encompasses alpha olefin polymerization and oligomerization processes. Such processes can comprise contacting a C₄ to C₆₀ alpha olefin and a catalyst composition to produce an alpha olefin polymer/oligomer product. Generally, the catalyst composition employed can comprise any of the transition metal compounds disclosed herein and any of the activator-supports and optional co-catalysts disclosed herein. For example, organoaluminum compounds can be utilized in the catalyst compositions and/or polymerization processes. Alpha olefin products produced by these processes can be used to produce various articles of manufacture.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 presents the structures and abbreviations for compounds TM-1, TM-2, and TM-3 discussed herein.

FIG. 2 presents the structures and abbreviations for compounds TM-A, TM-B, TM-C, and TM-D discussed herein.

FIG. 3 presents a ¹H-NMR plot of TM-2 from Example 6.

FIG. 4 presents a plot of the molecular weight distributions of the alpha olefin polymer products of Examples 37-39.

DEFINITIONS

To define more clearly the terms used herein, the following definitions are provided. Unless otherwise indicated, the following definitions are applicable to this disclosure. If a term is used in this disclosure but is not specifically defined herein, the definition from the IUPAC Compendium of Chemical Terminology, 2nd Ed (1997) can be applied, as long as that definition does not conflict with any other disclosure or definition applied herein, or render indefinite or non-enabled any claim to which that definition is applied. To the extent that any definition or usage provided by any document incorporated herein by reference conflicts with the definition or usage provided herein, the definition or usage provided herein controls.

Regarding claim transitional terms or phrases, the transitional term “comprising”, which is synonymous with “including,” “containing,” or “characterized by,” is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. The transitional phrase “consisting of” excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claim. The transitional phrase “consisting essentially of” limits the scope of a claim to the specified materials or steps and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. A “consisting essentially of” claim occupies a middle ground between closed claims that are written in a “consisting of” format and fully open claims that are drafted in a “comprising” format. Absent an indication to the contrary, when describing a compound or composition “consisting essentially of” is not to be construed as “comprising,” but is intended to describe the recited component that includes materials which do not significantly alter composition or method to which the term is applied. For example, a feedstock consisting essentially of a material A can include impurities typically present in a commercially produced or commercially available sample of the recited compound or composition. When a claim includes different features and/or feature classes (for example, a method step, feedstock features, and/or product features, among other possibilities), the transitional terms comprising, consisting essentially of, and consisting of, apply only to feature class to which is utilized and it is possible to have different transitional terms or phrases utilized with different features within a claim. For example a method can comprise several recited steps (and other non-recited steps) but utilize a catalyst system preparation consisting of specific steps but utilize a catalyst system comprising recited components and other non-recited components. While compositions and methods are described in terms of “comprising” various components or steps, the compositions and methods can also “consist essentially of” or “consist of” the various components or steps, unless stated otherwise. For example, a catalyst composition consistent with embodiments of the present invention can comprise; alternatively, can consist essentially of; or alternatively, can consist of; (i) a transition metal compound, (ii) an activator-support, and (iii) optionally, a co-catalyst.

The terms “a,” “an,” “the,” etc., are intended to include plural alternatives, e.g., at least one, unless otherwise specified. For instance, the disclosure of “an activator-support” or “a transition metal compound” is meant to encompass one, or mixtures or combinations of more than one, activator-support or transition metal compound, respectively, unless otherwise specified.

Groups of elements of the table are indicated using the numbering scheme indicated in the version of the periodic table of elements published in Chemical and Engineering News, 63(5), 27, 1985. In some instances, a group of elements can be indicated using a common name assigned to the group; for example, alkali metals for Group 1 elements, alkaline earth metals for Group 2 elements, transition metals for Group 3-12 elements, and halogens or halides for Group 17 elements.

For any particular compound disclosed herein, the general structure or name presented is also intended to encompass all structural isomers, conformational isomers, and stereoisomers that can arise from a particular set of substituents, unless indicated otherwise. Thus, a general reference to a compound includes all structural isomers unless explicitly indicated otherwise; e.g., a general reference to pentane includes n-pentane, 2-methyl-butane, and 2,2-dimethylpropane, while a general reference to a butyl group includes an n-butyl group, a sec-butyl group, an iso-butyl group, and a tert-butyl group. Additionally, the reference to a general structure or name encompasses all enantiomers, diastereomers, and other optical isomers whether in enantiomeric or racemic forms, as well as mixtures of stereoisomers, as the context permits or requires. For any particular formula or name that is presented, any general formula or name presented also encompasses all conformational isomers, regioisomers, and stereoisomers that can arise from a particular set of substituents.

A chemical “group” is described according to how that group is formally derived from a reference or “parent” compound, for example, by the number of hydrogen atoms formally removed from the parent compound to generate the group, even if that group is not literally synthesized in this manner. These groups can be utilized as substituents or coordinated or bonded to metal atoms. By way of example, an “alkyl group” formally can be derived by removing one hydrogen atom from an alkane, while an “alkylene group” formally can be derived by removing two hydrogen atoms from an alkane. Moreover, a more general term can be used to encompass a variety of groups that formally are derived by removing any number (“one or more”) hydrogen atoms from a parent compound, which in this example can be described as an “alkane group,” and which encompasses an “alkyl group,” an “alkylene group,” and materials have three or more hydrogen atoms, as necessary for the situation, removed from the alkane. Throughout, the disclosure that a substituent, ligand, or other chemical moiety can constitute a particular “group” implies that the well-known rules of chemical structure and bonding are followed when that group is employed as described. When describing a group as being “derived by,” “derived from,” “formed by,” or “formed from,” such terms are used in a formal sense and are not intended to reflect any specific synthetic methods or procedure, unless specified otherwise or the context requires otherwise.

The term “substituted” when used to describe a group, for example, when referring to a substituted analog of a particular group, is intended to describe any non-hydrogen moiety that formally replaces a hydrogen in that group, and is intended to be non-limiting. A group or groups can also be referred to herein as “unsubstituted” or by equivalent terms such as “non-substituted,” which refers to the original group in which a non-hydrogen moiety does not replace a hydrogen within that group. Unless otherwise specified, “substituted” is intended to be non-limiting and include inorganic substituents or organic substituents as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

The term “hydrocarbon” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to a compound containing only carbon and hydrogen. Other identifiers can be utilized to indicate the presence of particular groups in the hydrocarbon (e.g. halogenated hydrocarbon indicates that the presence of one or more halogen atoms replacing an equivalent number of hydrogen atoms in the hydrocarbon). The term “hydrocarbyl group” is used herein in accordance with the definition specified by IUPAC: a univalent group formed by removing a hydrogen atom from a hydrocarbon (that is, a group containing only carbon and hydrogen). Non-limiting examples of hydrocarbyl groups include ethyl, phenyl, tolyl, propenyl, and the like. Similarly, a “hydrocarbylene group” refers to a group formed by removing two hydrogen atoms from a hydrocarbon, either two hydrogen atoms from one carbon atom or one hydrogen atom from each of two different carbon atoms. Therefore, in accordance with the terminology used herein, a “hydrocarbon group” refers to a generalized group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group) from a hydrocarbon. A “hydrocarbyl group,” “hydrocarbylene group,” and “hydrocarbon group” can be aliphatic or aromatic, acyclic or cyclic groups, and/or linear or branched. A “hydrocarbyl group,” “hydrocarbylene group,” and “hydrocarbon group” can include rings, ring systems, aromatic rings, and aromatic ring systems, which contain only carbon and hydrogen. “Hydrocarbyl groups,” “hydrocarbylene groups,” and “hydrocarbon groups” include, by way of example, aryl, arylene, arene groups, alkyl, alkylene, alkane group, cycloalkyl, cycloalkylene, cycloalkane groups, aralkyl, aralkylene, and aralkane groups, respectively, among other groups as members.

An aliphatic compound is a class of acyclic or cyclic, saturated or unsaturated, carbon compounds, excluding aromatic compounds. An “aliphatic group” is a generalized group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group) from carbon atom of an aliphatic compound. That is, an aliphatic compound is a non-aromatic organic compound. Aliphatic compounds and therefore aliphatic groups can contain organic functional group(s) and/or atom(s) other than carbon and hydrogen.

An aromatic compound is a compound containing a cyclically conjugated double bond system that follows the Hückel (4n+2) rule and contains (4n+2) pi-electrons, where n is an integer from 1 to 5. Aromatic compounds include “arenes” (hydrocarbon aromatic compounds) and “heteroarenes,” also termed “hetarenes” (heteroaromatic compounds formally derived from arenes by replacement of one or more methine (—C═) carbon atoms of the cyclically conjugated double bond system with a trivalent or divalent heteroatoms, in such a way as to maintain the continuous pi-electron system characteristic of an aromatic system and a number of out-of-plane pi-electrons corresponding to the Hückel rule (4n+2). While arene compounds and heteroarene compounds are mutually exclusive members of the group of aromatic compounds, a compound that has both an arene group and a heteroarene group are generally considered a heteroarene compound. Aromatic compounds, arenes, and heteroarenes can be monocyclic (e.g., benzene, toluene, furan, pyridine, methylpyridine) or polycyclic unless otherwise specified. Polycyclic aromatic compounds, arenes, and heteroarenes, include, unless otherwise specified, compounds wherein the aromatic rings can be fused (e.g., naphthalene, benzofuran, and indole), compounds where the aromatic groups can be separate and joined by a bond (e.g., biphenyl or 4-phenylpyridine), or compounds where the aromatic groups are joined by a group containing linking atoms (e.g., carbon—the methylene group in diphenylmethane; oxygen—diphenyl ether; nitrogen—triphenyl amine; among others linking groups). As disclosed herein, the term “substituted” can be used to describe an aromatic group, arene, or heteroarene wherein a non-hydrogen moiety formally replaces a hydrogen in the compound, and is intended to be non-limiting.

An “aromatic group” refers to a generalized group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group and at least one of which is an aromatic ring carbon atom) from an aromatic compound. For a univalent “aromatic group,” the removed hydrogen atom must be from an aromatic ring carbon. For an “aromatic group” formed by removing more than one hydrogen atom from an aromatic compound, at least one hydrogen atom must be from an aromatic hydrocarbon ring carbon. Additionally, an “aromatic group” can have hydrogen atoms removed from the same ring of an aromatic ring or ring system (e.g., phen-1,4-ylene, pyridin-2,3-ylene, naphth-1,2-ylene, and benzofuran-2,3-ylene), hydrogen atoms removed from two different rings of a ring system (e.g., naphth-1,8-ylene and benzofuran-2,7-ylene), or hydrogen atoms removed from two isolated aromatic rings or ring systems (e.g., bis(phen-4-ylene)methane).

The term “alkane” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to a saturated hydrocarbon compound. Other identifiers can be utilized to indicate the presence of particular groups in the alkane (e.g. halogenated alkane indicates that the presence of one or more halogen atoms replacing an equivalent number of hydrogen atoms in the alkane). The term “alkyl group” is used herein in accordance with the definition specified by IUPAC: a univalent group formed by removing a hydrogen atom from an alkane. Similarly, an “alkylene group” refers to a group formed by removing two hydrogen atoms from an alkane (either two hydrogen atoms from one carbon atom or one hydrogen atom from two different carbon atoms). An “alkane group” is a general term that refers to a group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group) from an alkane. An “alkyl group,” “alkylene group,” and “alkane group” can be acyclic or cyclic groups, and/or can be linear or branched unless otherwise specified. Primary, secondary, and tertiary alkyl group are derived by removal of a hydrogen atom from a primary, secondary, tertiary carbon atom, respectively, of an alkane. The n-alkyl group can be derived by removal of a hydrogen atom from a terminal carbon atom of a linear alkane. The groups RCH₂ (R≠H), R₂CH (R≠H), and R₃C (R≠H) are primary, secondary, and tertiary alkyl groups, respectively.

A cycloalkane is a saturated cyclic hydrocarbon, with or without side chains, for example, cyclobutane. Other identifiers can be utilized to indicate the presence of particular groups in the cycloalkane (e.g. halogenated cycloalkane indicates that the presence of one or more halogen atoms replacing an equivalent number of hydrogen atoms in the cycloalkane). Unsaturated cyclic hydrocarbons having one endocyclic double or one triple bond are called cycloalkenes and cycloalkynes, respectively. Those having more than one such multiple bond are cycloalkadienes, cycloalkatrienes, and so forth. Other identifiers can be utilized to indicate the presence of particular groups in the cycloalkene, cycloalkadienes, cycloalkatrienes, and so forth.

A “cycloalkyl group” is a univalent group derived by removing a hydrogen atom from a ring carbon atom from a cycloalkane. For example, a 1-methylcyclopropyl group and a 2-methylcyclopropyl group are illustrated as follows.

Similarly, a “cycloalkylene group” refers to a group derived by removing two hydrogen atoms from a cycloalkane, at least one of which is a ring carbon. Thus, a “cycloalkylene group” includes both a group derived from a cycloalkane in which two hydrogen atoms are formally removed from the same ring carbon, a group derived from a cycloalkane in which two hydrogen atoms are formally removed from two different ring carbons, and a group derived from a cycloalkane in which a first hydrogen atom is formally removed from a ring carbon and a second hydrogen atom is formally removed from a carbon atom that is not a ring carbon. An “cycloalkane group” refers to a generalized group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group and at least one of which is a ring carbon) from a cycloalkane.

The term “alkene” whenever used in this specification and claims refers a linear or branched hydrocarbon olefin that has one carbon-carbon double bond and the general formula C_(n)H_(2n). Alkadienes refer to a linear or branched hydrocarbon olefin having two carbon-carbon double bonds and the general formula C_(n)H_(2n-2) and alkatrienes refer to linear or branched hydrocarbon olefins having three carbon-carbon and the general formula C_(n)H_(2n-4). Alkenes, alkadienes, and alkatrienes can be further identified by the position of the carbon-carbon double bond(s). Other identifiers can be utilized to indicate the presence or absence of particular groups within an alkene, alkadiene, or alkatriene. For example, a haloalkene refers to an alkene having one or more hydrogen atoms replace with a halogen atom.

An “alkenyl group” is a univalent group derived from an alkene by removal of a hydrogen atom from any carbon atom of the alkene. Thus, “alkenyl group” includes groups in which the hydrogen atom is formally removed from an sp² hybridized (olefinic) carbon atom and groups in which the hydrogen atom is formally removed from any other carbon atom. For example and unless otherwise specified, 1-propenyl (—CH═CHCH₃), 2-propenyl [(CH₃)C═CH₂], and 3-propenyl (—CH₂CH═CH₂) groups are encompassed with the term “alkenyl group.” Similarly, an “alkenylene group” refers to a group formed by formally removing two hydrogen atoms from an alkene, either two hydrogen atoms from one carbon atom or one hydrogen atom from two different carbon atoms. An “alkene group” refers to a generalized group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group) from an alkene. When the hydrogen atom is removed from a carbon atom participating in a carbon-carbon double bond, the regiochemistry of the carbon from which the hydrogen atom is removed, and regiochemistry of the carbon-carbon double bond can both be specified. Other identifiers can be utilized to indicate the presence or absence of particular groups within an alkene group. Alkene groups can also be further identified by the position of the carbon-carbon double bond.

The term “alkyne” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to a linear or branched hydrocarbon olefin that has one carbon-carbon triple bond and the general formula C_(n)H_(2n-2). Alkadiynes refer to a hydrocarbon olefin having two carbon-carbon double bonds and the general formula C_(n)H_(2n-6) and alkatriynes refer to hydrocarbon olefins having three carbon-carbon and the general formula C_(n)H_(2n-10). Alkynes, alkadiynes, and alkatriynes can be further identified by the position of the carbon-carbon triple bond(s). Other identifiers can be utilized to indicate the presence or absence of particular groups within an alkene, alkadiene, or alkatriene. For example, a haloalkyne refers to an alkyne having one or more hydrogen atoms replace with a halogen atom.

An “alkynyl group” is a univalent group derived from an alkyne by removal of a hydrogen atom from any carbon atom of the alkyne. Thus, “alkynyl group” includes groups in which the hydrogen atom is formally removed from an sp hybridized (acetylenic) carbon atom and groups in which the hydrogen atom is formally removed from any other carbon atom. For example and unless otherwise specified, 1-propynyl (—C≡CCH₃) and 3-propynyl (HC≡CCH₂—) groups are all encompassed with the term “alkynyl group.” Similarly, an “alkynylene group” refers to a group formed by formally removing two hydrogen atoms from an alkyne, either two hydrogen atoms from one carbon atom if possible or one hydrogen atom from two different carbon atoms. An “alkyne group” refers to a generalized group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group) from an alkyne. Other identifiers can be utilized to indicate the presence or absence of particular groups within an alkyne group. Alkyne groups can also be further identified by the position of the carbon-carbon triple bond.

The term “olefin” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to compound that has at least one carbon-carbon double bond that is not part of an aromatic ring or ring system. The term “olefin” includes aliphatic, aromatic, cyclic or acyclic, and/or linear and branched compounds having at least one carbon-carbon double bond that is not part of an aromatic ring or ring system unless specifically stated otherwise. The term “olefin,” by itself, does not indicate the presence or absence of heteroatoms and/or the presence or absence of other carbon-carbon double bonds unless explicitly indicated. Olefins can also be further identified by the position of the carbon-carbon double bond. It is noted that alkenes, alkadienes, alkatrienes, cycloalkenes, cycloalkadienes, are members of the class of olefins. The olefin can be further identified by the position of the carbon-carbon double bond(s).

The term “alpha olefin” as used in this specification and claims refers to an olefin that has a double bond between the first and second carbon atom of a contiguous chain of carbon atoms. The term “alpha olefin” includes linear and branched alpha olefins unless expressly stated otherwise. In the case of branched alpha olefins, a branch can be at the 2-position (a vinylidene) and/or the 3-position or higher with respect to the olefin double bond. The term “vinylidene” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to an alpha olefin having a branch at the 2-position with respect to the olefin double bond. By itself, the term “alpha olefin” does not indicate the presence or absence of heteroatoms and/or the presence or absence of other carbon-carbon double bonds unless explicitly indicated. The terms “hydrocarbon alpha olefin” or “alpha olefin hydrocarbon” refer to alpha olefin compounds containing only hydrogen and carbon.

The term “linear alpha olefin” as used herein refers to a linear olefin having a double bond between the first and second carbon atom. The term “linear alpha olefin” by itself does not indicate the presence or absence of heteroatoms and/or the presence or absence of other carbon-carbon double bonds, unless explicitly indicated. The terms “linear hydrocarbon alpha olefin” or “linear alpha olefin hydrocarbon” refers to linear alpha olefin compounds containing only hydrogen and carbon.

The term “normal alpha olefin” whenever used in this specification and claims refers to a linear hydrocarbon mono-olefin having a double bond between the first and second carbon atom. It is noted that “normal alpha olefin” is not synonymous with “linear alpha olefin” as the term “linear alpha olefin” can include linear olefinic compounds having a double bond between the first and second carbon atoms and having heteroatoms and/or additional double bonds.

A “heterocyclic compound” is a cyclic compound having at least two different elements as ring member atoms. For example, heterocyclic compounds can comprise rings containing carbon and nitrogen (for example, tetrahydropyrrole), carbon and oxygen (for example, tetrahydrofuran), or carbon and sulfur (for example, tetrahydrothiophene), among others. Heterocyclic compounds and heterocyclic groups can be either aliphatic or aromatic.

A “heterocyclyl group” is a univalent group formed by removing a hydrogen atom from a heterocyclic ring or ring system carbon atom of a heterocyclic compound. By specifying that the hydrogen atom is removed from a heterocyclic ring or ring system carbon atom, a “heterocyclyl group” is distinguished from a “cycloheteryl group,” in which a hydrogen atom is removed from a heterocyclic ring or ring system heteroatom. For example, a pyrrolidin-2-yl group illustrated below is one example of a “heterocyclyl group,” and a pyrrolidin-1-yl group illustrated below is one example of a “cycloheteryl” group.”

Similarly, a “heterocyclylene group” or more simply, a “heterocyclene group,” refers to a group formed by removing two hydrogen atoms from a heterocyclic compound, at least one of which is from a heterocyclic ring or ring system carbon. Thus, in a “heterocyclylene group,” at least one hydrogen is removed from a heterocyclic ring or ring system carbon atom, and the other hydrogen atom can be removed from any other carbon atom, including for example, the same heterocyclic ring or ring system carbon atom, a different heterocyclic ring or ring system ring carbon atom, or a non-ring carbon atom. A “heterocyclic group” refers to a generalized group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group and at least one of which is a heterocyclic ring carbon atom) from a heterocyclic compound. Generally, a heterocyclic compound can be aliphatic or aromatic unless otherwise specified.

A “cycloheteryl group” is a univalent group formed by removing a hydrogen atom from a heterocyclic ring or ring system heteroatom of a heterocyclic compound, as illustrated. By specifying that the hydrogen atom is removed from a heterocyclic ring or ring system heteroatom and not from a ring carbon atom, a “cycloheteryl group” is distinguished from a “heterocyclyl group” in which a hydrogen atom is removed from a heterocyclic ring or ring system carbon atom. Similarly, a “cycloheterylene group” refers to a group formed by removing two hydrogen atoms from an heterocyclic compound, at least one of which is removed from a heterocyclic ring or ring system heteroatom of the heterocyclic compound; the other hydrogen atom can be removed from any other atom, including for example, a heterocyclic ring or ring system ring carbon atom, another heterocyclic ring or ring system heteroatom, or a non-ring atom (carbon or heteroatom). A “cyclohetero group” refers to a generalized group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group and at least one of which is from a heterocyclic ring or ring system heteroatom) from a heterocyclic compound.

An arene is aromatic hydrocarbon, with or without side chains (e.g. benzene, toluene, or xylene, among others. An “aryl group” is a group derived from the formal removal of a hydrogen atom from an aromatic ring carbon of an arene. It should be noted that the arene can contain a single aromatic hydrocarbon ring (e.g., benzene, or toluene), contain fused aromatic rings (e.g., naphthalene or anthracene), and contain one or more isolated aromatic rings covalently linked via a bond (e.g., biphenyl) or non-aromatic hydrocarbon group(s) (e.g., diphenylmethane). One example of an “aryl group” is ortho-tolyl (o-tolyl), the structure of which is shown here.

Similarly, an “arylene group” refers to a group formed by removing two hydrogen atoms (at least one of which is from an aromatic ring carbon) from an arene. An “arene group” refers to a generalized group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group and at least one of which is an aromatic ring carbon) from an arene. However, if a group contains separate and distinct arene and heteroarene rings or ring systems (e.g. the phenyl and benzofuran moieties in 7-phenylbenzofuran) its classification depends upon the particular ring or ring system from which the hydrogen atom was removed, that is, an arene group if the removed hydrogen came from the aromatic hydrocarbon ring or ring system carbon atom (e.g. the 2 carbon atom in the phenyl group of 6-phenylbenzofuran and a heteroarene group if the removed hydrogen carbon came from a heteroaromatic ring or ring system carbon atom (e.g. the 2 or 7 carbon atom of the benzofuran group or 6-phenylbenzofuran). It should be noted that according the definitions provided herein, general arene groups (including an aryl group and an areylene group) include those having zero, one, or more than one hydrocarbyl substituent groups located on an aromatic hydrocarbon ring or ring system carbon atom (e.g., a toluene group or a xylene group, among others) and is a member of the group of hydrocarbon groups. However, a phenyl group (or phenylene group) and/or a naphthyl group (or naphthylene group) refer to the specific unsubstituted arene groups (including no hydrocarbyl group located on an aromatic hydrocarbon ring or ring system carbon atom). Consequently, a substituted phenyl group or substituted naphthyl group refers to the respective arene group having one or more substituent groups (including halogens, hydrocarbyl groups, or hydrocarboxy groups, among others) located on an aromatic hydrocarbon ring or ring system carbon atom. When the substituted phenyl group and/or substituted naphthyl group is a member of the group of hydrocarbon groups (or a member of the general group of arene groups), each substituent is limited to a hydrocarbyl substituent group. One having ordinary skill in the art can readily discern and select general phenyl and/or naphthyl groups, specific phenyl and/or naphthyl groups, and/or individual substituted phenyl or substituted naphthyl groups which can be utilized as a member of the group of hydrocarbon groups (or a member of the general group of arene groups).

A heteroarene is aromatic compound, with or without side chains, having a heteroatom within the aromatic ring or aromatic ring system (e.g. pyridine, indole, or benzofuran, among others). A “heteroaryl group” is a class of “heterocyclyl group” and is a univalent group formed by removing a hydrogen atom from a heteroaromatic ring or ring system carbon atom of a heteroarene compound. By specifying that the hydrogen atom is removed from a ring carbon atom, a “heteroaryl group” is distinguished from an “arylheteryl group,” in which a hydrogen atom is removed from a heteroaromatic ring or ring system heteroatom. For example, an indol-2-yl group illustrated below is one example of a “heteroaryl group,” and an indol-1-yl group illustrated below is one example of an “arylheteryl” group.”

Similarly, a “heteroarylene group” refers to a group formed by removing two hydrogen atoms from a heteroarene compound, at least one of which is from a heteroarene ring or ring system carbon atom. Thus, in a “heteroarylene group,” at least one hydrogen is removed from a heteroarene ring or ring system carbon atom, and the other hydrogen atom can be removed from any other carbon atom, including for example, a heteroarene ring or ring system carbon atom, or a non-heteroarene ring or ring system atom. A “heteroarene group” refers to a generalized group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group and at least one of which is a heteroarene ring or ring system carbon atom) from a heteroarene compound. If a hydrogen atom is removed from a heteroaromatic ring or ring system heteroatom and from a heteroaromatic ring or ring system carbon atom or an aromatic hydrocarbon ring or ring system carbon atom, the group is classified as an “arylheterylene group” or an “arylhetero group.”

An “arylheteryl group” is a class of “cycloheteryl group” and is a univalent group formed by removing a hydrogen atom from a heteroaromatic ring or ring system heteroatom, as illustrated. By specifying that the hydrogen atom is removed from of a heteroaromatic ring or ring system heteroatom and not from a heteroaromatic ring or ring system carbon atom, an “arylheteryl group” is distinguished from a “heteroaryl group” in which a hydrogen atom is removed from a heteroaromatic ring or a ring system carbon atom. Similarly, an “arylheterylene group” refers to a group formed by removing two hydrogen atoms from a heteroaryl compound, at least one of which is removed from a heteroaromatic ring or ring system heteroatom of the heteroaryl compound; the other hydrogen atom can be removed from any other atom, including for example, a heteroaromatic ring or ring system carbon atom, another heteroaromatic ring or ring system heteroatom, or a non-ring atom (carbon or heteroatom) from a heteroaromatic compound. An “arylhetero group” refers to a generalized group formed by removing one or more hydrogen atoms (as necessary for the particular group and at least one of which is from a heteroaromatic ring or ring system) heteroatom from a heteroarene compound.

An “aralkyl group” is an aryl-substituted alkyl group having a free valance at a non-aromatic carbon atom (e.g. a benzyl group, or a 2-phenyleth-1yl group, among others). Similarly, an “aralkylene group” is an aryl-substituted alkylene group having two free valences at a single non-aromatic carbon atom or a free valence at two non-aromatic carbon atoms while an “aralkane group” is a generalized is an aryl-substituted alkane group having one or more free valences at a non-aromatic carbon atom(s). A “heteroaralkyl group” is a heteroaryl-substituted alkyl group having a free valence at a non-heteroaromatic ring or ring system carbon atom. Similarly a “heteroaralkylene group” is a heteroaryl-substituted alkylene group having two free valences at a single non-heteroaromatic ring or ring system carbon atom or a free valence at two non-heteroaromatic ring or ring system carbon atoms while a “heteroaralkane group” is a generalized aryl-substituted alkane group having one or more free valences at a non-heteroaromatic ring or ring system carbon atom(s). It should be noted that according the definitions provided herein, general aralkane groups include those having zero, one, or more than one hydrocarbyl substituent groups located on an aralkane aromatic hydrocarbon ring or ring system carbon atom and is a member of the group of hydrocarbon groups. However, specific aralkane groups specifying a particular aryl group (e.g. the phenyl group in a benzyl group or a 2-phenylethyl group, among others) refer to the specific unsubstituted aralkane groups (including no hydrocarbyl group located on the aralkane aromatic hydrocarbon ring or ring system carbon atom). Consequently, a substituted aralkane group specifying a particular aryl group refers to a respective aralkane group having one or more substituent groups (including halogens, hydrocarbyl groups, or hydrocarboxy groups, among others). When the substituted aralkane group specifying a particular aryl group is a member of the group of hydrocarbon groups (or a member of the general group of aralkane groups), each substituent is limited to a hydrocarbyl substituent group. One can readily discern and select substituted aralkane groups specifying a particular aryl group which can be utilized as a member of the group of hydrocarbon groups (or a member of the general group of aralkane groups).

A “halide” has its usual meaning. Examples of halides include fluoride, chloride, bromide, and iodide.

The terms “product,” “alpha olefin product,” “polymer product,” “polymerization product,” “polymer,” “oligomer product,” “oligomerization product,” “oligomer,” “alpha olefin oligomer,” and the like, are used generically and interchangeably to encompass any of the products, excluding monomer(s), regardless of molecular weight, produced by the contacting of an alpha olefin monomer with a catalyst composition (e.g., an oligomerization reaction, a polymerization reaction, etc.), and the alpha olefin products disclosed herein can range in weight-average molecular weight (M_(w)) from about 1,000 g/mol to over 1,000,000 g/mol. Moreover, these terms are also used generically herein to include alpha olefin homopolymers, copolymers, terpolymers, and so forth. A copolymer is derived from an alpha olefin monomer and one alpha olefin comonomer, while a terpolymer is derived from an alpha olefin monomer and two alpha olefin comonomers. Accordingly, “polymer” and “oligomer” encompass copolymers, terpolymers, etc., derived from any alpha olefin monomer and comonomer(s) disclosed herein.

In like manner, the scope of the term “polymerization” (or “oligomerization”) includes homopolymerization, copolymerization, terpolymerization, etc. Therefore, a copolymerization process would involve contacting one alpha olefin monomer and one alpha olefin comonomer to produce a copolymer.

The alpha olefin product in combination with residual monomer from preparing the product and any other material which exits the reactor is termed the “polymerization reactor effluent,” “oligomerization reactor effluent,” “reactor effluent,” or similar terms.

A “heavy oligomer product” is the product that results from removing some of the lower alpha olefin oligomers from the alpha olefin product within the reactor effluent. In an aspect, the process utilized to remove some of the lower alpha olefin oligomers can be distillation. In another aspect, the process utilized to remove some of the lower alpha olefin oligomers can be purging or sparging. In yet another aspect, the process to remove some of the lower alpha olefin oligomers can be distillation using a gas purge. When the material being distilled, purged, or sparged also contains some alpha olefin monomer (e.g., reactor effluent wherein not all of the alpha olefin monomer is converted to an alpha olefin polymerization or oligomerization product), the distillation, purging, or sparging can also remove some or all of the alpha olefin monomer. Consequently, depending upon the polymerization method and the fractionation method, the heavy oligomer product can contain less than some specified amount of alpha olefin monomer (e.g., less than 1 weight percent based on the total weight of the heavy oligomer product). Generally, the process of removing some of the lower alpha olefin oligomers removes at least a portion of the alpha olefin monomer, the dimer, and/or the trimer to form the heavy oligomer product. It is noted that when the method utilized to remove some of the lower alpha olefin oligomers, by its nature, the method can also remove a portion of the higher olefin oligomers, and this point does not detract from the intent to remove a portion of the lower alpha olefin oligomers. In some cases, the term alpha olefin product can be used to describe the reaction product both before and after distillation, in which case, reference to the context and experimental details can be made to determine whether the product has been distilled or not.

A “polyalphaolefin” (PAO) is a mixture of hydrogenated (or alternatively, substantially saturated) oligomers, containing units derived from an alpha olefin monomer. Unless specified otherwise, the PAO can contain units derived from alpha olefin monomer units, which can be the same (hydrogenated or substantially saturated alpha olefin homooligomer) or can be different (hydrogenated or substantially saturated alpha olefin co-oligomer). One having ordinary skill in the art will recognize that depending on the process utilized to produce the PAO, the as-produced alpha olefin oligomers can already be substantially saturated. For example, a process which is carried out in the presence of hydrogen can produce an olefin oligomer which may or may not require a separate hydrogenation step to provide a product with the desired properties. Generally, the alpha olefin monomer utilized to produce the polyalphaolefin can be any alpha olefin monomer described herein. One having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the process(es) for producing the PAO can leave some hydrogenated monomer in the PAO (e.g., less than 1 weight % based on the total amount of the PAO), and this quantity of hydrogenated monomer can be specified.

The term “consists essentially of normal alpha olefin(s)” or variations thereof are used in the specification and claims to refer to commercially available normal alpha olefin monomer(s). The commercially available normal alpha olefin can contain non-normal alpha olefin impurities such as vinylidenes, internal olefins, branched alpha olefins, paraffins, and diolefins, among other impurities, which are not removed during the normal alpha olefin production process. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the identity and quantity of the specific impurities present in the commercial normal alpha olefin will depend upon the source of commercial normal alpha olefin. Additionally, when applied to a normal alpha olefin of a single carbon number, the term “consists essentially of a normal alpha olefin(s)” also includes small quantities (e.g., less than 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1 weight %) of olefins having a different carbon number than the recited normal alpha olefin carbon number which are not removed during the single carbon number normal alpha olefin production process. Consequently, the term “consists essentially of normal alpha olefins” and its variants are not intended to limit the amount/quantity of the non-linear alpha olefin components (or in relation to carbon number the amount of a non-recited carbon number) any more stringently than the amounts/quantities present in a particular commercial normal alpha olefin, unless explicitly stated. One source of commercially available alpha olefin monomer is those produced by the oligomerization of ethylene. A second source of commercially available alpha olefin monomer is those which are produced, and optionally isolated from, Fischer-Tropsch synthesis streams. One source of commercially available normal alpha olefin monomers produced by ethylene oligomerization which can be utilized as an olefin feedstock is Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP, The Woodlands, Tex., USA. Other sources of commercially available normal alpha olefin monomers produced by ethylene oligomerization which can be utilized as an olefin feedstock include Ineos Oligomers (Feluy, Belgium), Shell Chemicals Corporation (Houston, Tex., USA or London, United Kingdom), Idemitsu Kosan (Tokyo, Japan), and Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation (Tokyo, Japan), among others. One source of commercially available normal alpha olefin monomers produced, and optionally isolated from Fisher-Tropsch synthesis streams includes Sasol (Johannesburg, South Africa), among others.

The term “co-catalyst” is used generally herein to refer to compounds such as aluminoxane compounds, organoboron or organoborate compounds, ionizing ionic compounds, organoaluminum compounds, organozinc compounds, organomagnesium compounds, organolithium compounds, and the like, that can constitute one component of a catalyst composition, when used in addition to an activator-support. The term “co-catalyst” is used regardless of the actual function of the compound or any chemical mechanism by which the compound may operate.

The terms “chemically-treated solid oxide,” “treated solid oxide compound,” and the like, are used herein to indicate a solid, inorganic oxide of relatively high porosity, which can exhibit Lewis acidic or Brønsted acidic behavior, and which has been treated with an electron-withdrawing component, typically an anion, and which is calcined. The electron-withdrawing component is typically an electron-withdrawing anion source compound. Thus, the chemically-treated solid oxide can comprise a calcined contact product of at least one solid oxide with at least one electron-withdrawing anion source compound. Typically, the chemically-treated solid oxide comprises at least one acidic solid oxide compound. The “activator-support” of the present invention can be a chemically-treated solid oxide. The terms “support” and “activator-support” are not used to imply these components are inert, and such components should not be construed as an inert component of the catalyst composition. The term “activator,” as used herein, refers generally to a substance that is capable of converting a transition metal component into a catalyst that can polymerize alpha olefins, or converting a contact product of a transition metal compound and a component that provides an activatable ligand (e.g., an alkyl, a hydride) to the transition metal compound, when the transition metal compound does not already comprise such a ligand, into a catalyst that can polymerize alpha olefins. This term is used regardless of the actual activating mechanism. If the catalyst composition contains an activator-support, then aluminoxanes, organoboron or organoborate compounds, ionizing ionic compounds, and the like, are typically referred to as co-catalysts.

The term “fluoroorgano boron compound” is used herein with its ordinary meaning to refer to neutral compounds of the form BY₃. The term “fluoroorgano borate compound” also has its usual meaning to refer to the monoanionic salts of a fluoroorgano boron compound of the form [cation]⁺[BY₄]⁻, where Y represents a fluorinated organic group. Materials of these types are generally and collectively referred to as “organoboron or organoborate compounds.”

Compounds having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb) can be described herein as amine bis(phenolate) complexes or compounds, N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine complexes or compounds, bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine complexes or compounds, or simply transition metal complexes or compounds, and such terminology will be used interchangeably throughout this disclosure to describe compounds having formulas (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb).

The terms “catalyst composition,” “catalyst mixture,” “catalyst system,” and the like, do not depend upon the actual product or composition resulting from the contact or reaction of the initial components of the claimed catalyst composition/mixture/system, the nature of the active catalytic site, or the fate of the co-catalyst, the transition metal compound(s), any olefin monomer used to prepare a precontacted mixture, or the activator (e.g., activator-support), after combining these components. Therefore, the terms “catalyst composition,” “catalyst mixture,” “catalyst system,” and the like, encompass the initial starting components of the composition, as well as whatever product(s) may result from contacting these initial starting components, and this is inclusive of both heterogeneous and homogenous catalyst systems or compositions. The terms “catalyst composition,” “catalyst mixture,” “catalyst system,” and the like, will be used interchangeably throughout this disclosure.

The term “contact product” is used herein to describe compositions wherein the components are contacted together in any order, in any manner, and for any length of time. For example, the components can be contacted by blending or mixing. Further, contacting of any component can occur in the presence or absence of any other component of the compositions described herein. Combining additional materials or components can be done by any suitable method. Further, the term “contact product” includes mixtures, blends, solutions, slurries, reaction products, and the like, or combinations thereof. Although “contact product” can include reaction products, it is not required for the respective components to react with one another. Similarly, the term “contacting” is used herein to refer to materials which can be blended, mixed, slurried, dissolved, reacted, treated, or otherwise contacted in some other manner.

The term “precontacted” mixture is used herein to describe a first mixture of catalyst components that are contacted for a first period of time prior to the first mixture being used to form a “postcontacted” or second mixture of catalyst components that are contacted for a second period of time. Typically, the precontacted mixture can describe a mixture of transition metal compound (one or more than one), olefin monomer (or monomers), and organoaluminum compound (or compounds), before this mixture is contacted with an activator-support(s) and optional additional organoaluminum compound. Thus, precontacted describes components that are used to contact each other, but prior to contacting the components in the second, postcontacted mixture. Accordingly, this invention can occasionally distinguish between a component used to prepare the precontacted mixture and that component after the mixture has been prepared. For example, according to this description, it is possible for the precontacted organoaluminum compound, once it is contacted with the transition metal compound and the olefin monomer, to have reacted to form at least one different chemical compound, formulation, or structure from the distinct organoaluminum compound used to prepare the precontacted mixture. In this case, the precontacted organoaluminum compound or component is described as comprising an organoaluminum compound that was used to prepare the precontacted mixture.

Additionally, the precontacted mixture can describe a mixture of transition metal compound(s) and organoaluminum compound(s), prior to contacting this mixture with an activator-support(s). This precontacted mixture also can describe a mixture of transition metal compound(s), olefin monomer(s), and activator-support(s), before this mixture is contacted with an organoaluminum co-catalyst compound or compounds.

Similarly, the term “postcontacted” mixture is used herein to describe a second mixture of catalyst components that are contacted for a second period of time, and one constituent of which is the “precontacted” or first mixture of catalyst components that were contacted for a first period of time. Typically, the term “postcontacted” mixture is used herein to describe the mixture of transition metal compound(s), olefin monomer(s), organoaluminum compound(s), and activator-support(s) formed from contacting the precontacted mixture of a portion of these components with any additional components added to make up the postcontacted mixture. Often, the activator-support can comprise a chemically-treated solid oxide. For instance, the additional component added to make up the postcontacted mixture can be a chemically-treated solid oxide (one or more than one), and optionally, can include an organoaluminum compound which is the same as or different from the organoaluminum compound used to prepare the precontacted mixture, as described herein. Accordingly, this invention can also occasionally distinguish between a component used to prepare the postcontacted mixture and that component after the mixture has been prepared.

Although any methods, devices, and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the invention, the typical methods, devices and materials are herein described.

All publications and patents mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference for the purpose of describing and disclosing, for example, the constructs and methodologies that are described in the publications, which might be used in connection with the presently described invention. The publications discussed throughout the text are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the inventors are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention.

Applicants disclose several types of ranges in the present invention. When Applicants disclose or claim a range of any type, Applicants' intent is to disclose or claim individually each possible number that such a range could reasonably encompass, including end points of the range as well as any sub-ranges and combinations of sub-ranges encompassed therein. For example, when the Applicants disclose or claim a chemical moiety having a certain number of carbon atoms, Applicants' intent is to disclose or claim individually every possible number that such a range could encompass, consistent with the disclosure herein. For example, the disclosure that a moiety is a C₂ to C₁₈ alkenyl group, or in alternative language an alkenyl group having from 2 to 18 carbon atoms, as used herein, refers to a moiety that can be selected independently from an alkenyl group having 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, or 18 carbon atoms, as well as any range between these two numbers (for example, a C₂ to C₈ alkenyl group), and also including any combination of ranges between these two numbers (for example, a C₂ to C₆ and a C₁₂ to C₁₆ alkenyl group).

Similarly, another representative example follows for the weight-average molecular weight (M_(w)) of an alpha olefin product produced in an aspect of this invention. By a disclosure that the M_(w) can be in a range from about 2,000 to about 150,000 g/mol, Applicants intend to recite that the M_(w) can be about 2,000, about 3,000, about 4,000, about 5,000, about 6,000, about 7,000, about 8,000, about 9,000, about 10,000, about 20,000, about 30,000, about 40,000, about 50,000, about 60,000, about 70,000, about 80,000, about 90,000, about 100,000, about 110,000, about 120,000, about 130,000, about 140,000, or about 150,000 g/mol. Additionally, the M_(w) can be within any range from about 2,000 to about 150,000 (for example, from about 5,000 to about 50,000), and this also includes any combination of ranges between about 2,000 and about 150,000 (for example, the M_(w) can be in a range from about 4,000 to about 25,000, or from about 50,000 to about 75,000). Likewise, all other ranges disclosed herein should be interpreted in a manner similar to these two examples.

Applicants reserve the right to proviso out or exclude any individual members of any such group, including any sub-ranges or combinations of sub-ranges within the group, that can be claimed according to a range or in any similar manner, if for any reason Applicants choose to claim less than the full measure of the disclosure, for example, to account for a reference that Applicants may be unaware of at the time of the filing of the application. Further, Applicants reserve the right to proviso out or exclude any individual substituents, analogs, compounds, ligands, structures, or groups thereof, or any members of a claimed group, if for any reason Applicants choose to claim less than the full measure of the disclosure, for example, to account for a reference that Applicants may be unaware of at the time of the filing of the application.

The following abbreviations are used in this disclosure:

-   -   Bn—benzyl     -   Et—ethyl     -   MAO—methylaluminoxane     -   Me—methyl     -   M_(w)—weight-average molecular weight     -   Ph—phenyl     -   t-Bu—tert-butyl     -   THF—tetrahydrofuran     -   TIBA—triisobutylaluminum

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed generally to new catalyst compositions, methods for preparing catalyst compositions, methods for using the catalyst compositions to polymerize alpha olefins, the alpha olefin products produced using such catalyst compositions, and articles produced using alpha olefin products. In particular, the present invention relates to amine bis(phenolate) or N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine transition metal compounds, and catalyst compositions employing such transition metal compounds.

Amine Bis(Phenolate) Transition Metal Complexes

The present invention discloses novel amine bis(phenolate) complexes or compounds (e.g., N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine complexes or compounds), and methods of making these complexes or compounds. In an embodiment of this invention, the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound can have the formula:

Within formula (Ia), M, X¹, X², R^(A), R^(B), R^(C), p, and q are independent elements of the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound. Accordingly, the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound having formula (Ia) can be described using any combination of M, X¹, X², R^(A), R^(B), R^(C), p, and q disclosed herein.

Unless otherwise specified, formula (Ia) above, any other structural formulas disclosed herein, and any N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine complex, compound, or species disclosed herein are not designed to show stereochemistry or isomeric positioning of the different moieties (e.g., these formulas are not intended to display cis or trans isomers, or R or S diastereoisomers), although such compounds are contemplated and encompassed by these formulas and/or structures.

In accordance with aspects of this invention, the metal in formula (Ia), M, can be Ti, Zr, or Hf. In one aspect, for instance, M can be Zr or Hf, while in another aspect, M can be Ti; alternatively, M can be Zr; or alternatively, M can be Hf.

X¹ and X² in formula (Ia) independently can be a monoanionic ligand. In some aspects, suitable monoanionic ligands can include, but are not limited to, H (hydride), BH₄, a halide, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylaminyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group, —OBR¹ ₂, or —OSO₂R¹, wherein R¹ is a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group. It is contemplated that X¹ and X² can be either the same or a different monoanionic ligand.

In one aspect, X¹ and X² independently can be H, BH₄, a halide (e.g., F, Cl, Br, etc.), a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarboxy group, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylaminyl group, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylsilyl group, or a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group. Alternatively, X¹ and X² independently can be H, BH₄, a halide, OBR¹ ₂, or OSO₂R¹, wherein R¹ is a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group. In another aspect, X¹ and X² independently can be H, BH₄, a halide, a C₁ to C₁₂ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₁₂ hydrocarboxy group, a C₁ to C₁₂ hydrocarbylaminyl group, a C₁ to C₁₂ hydrocarbylsilyl group, a C₁ to C₁₂ hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group, OBR¹ ₂, or OSO₂R¹, wherein R¹ is a C₁ to C₁₂ hydrocarbyl group. In yet another aspect, X¹ and X² independently can be H, BH₄, a halide, a C₁ to C₁₀ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₁₀ hydrocarboxy group, a C₁ to C₁₀ hydrocarbylaminyl group, a C₁ to C₁₀ hydrocarbylsilyl group, a C₁ to C₁₀ hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group, OBR¹ ₂, or OSO₂R¹, wherein R¹ is a C₁ to C₁₀ hydrocarbyl group. In still another aspect, X¹ and X² independently can be H, BH₄, a halide, a C₁ to C₈ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₈ hydrocarboxy group, a C₁ to C₈ hydrocarbylaminyl group, a C₁ to C₈ hydrocarbylsilyl group, a C₁ to C₈ hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group, OBR¹ ₂, or OSO₂R¹, wherein R¹ is a C₁ to C₈ hydrocarbyl group.

The hydrocarbyl group which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can be a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, including, but not limited to, a C₁ to C₃₆ alkyl group, a C₂ to C₃₆ alkenyl group, a C₄ to C₃₆ cycloalkyl group, a C₆ to C₃₆ aryl group, or a C₇ to C₃₆ aralkyl group. For instance, X¹ and X² independently can be a C₁ to C₁₈ alkyl group, a C₂ to C₁₈ alkenyl group, a C₄ to C₁₈ cycloalkyl group, a C₆ to C₁₈ aryl group, or a C₇ to C₁₈ aralkyl group; alternatively, X¹ and X² independently can be a C₁ to C₁₂ alkyl group, a C₂ to C₁₂ alkenyl group, a C₄ to C₁₂ cycloalkyl group, a C₆ to C₁₂ aryl group, or a C₇ to C₁₂ aralkyl group; alternatively, X¹ and X² independently can be a C₁ to C₁₀ alkyl group, a C₂ to C₁₀ alkenyl group, a C₄ to C₁₀ cycloalkyl group, a C₆ to C₁₀ aryl group, or a C₇ to C₁₀ aralkyl group; or alternatively, X¹ and X² independently can be a C₁ to C₅ alkyl group, a C₂ to C₅ alkenyl group, a C₅ to C₈ cycloalkyl group, a C₆ to C₈ aryl group, or a C₇ to C₈ aralkyl group.

Accordingly, in some aspects, the alkyl group which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can be a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group, a pentyl group, a hexyl group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, a nonyl group, a decyl group, a undecyl group, a dodecyl group, a tridecyl group, a tetradecyl group, a pentadecyl group, a hexadecyl group, a heptadecyl group, or an octadecyl group; or alternatively, a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group, a pentyl group, a hexyl group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, a nonyl group, or a decyl group. In some aspects, the alkyl group which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can be a methyl group, an ethyl group, a n-propyl group, an iso-propyl group, a n-butyl group, an iso-butyl group, a sec-butyl group, a tert-butyl group, a n-pentyl group, an iso-pentyl group, a sec-pentyl group, or a neopentyl group; alternatively, a methyl group, an ethyl group, an iso-propyl group, a tert-butyl group, or a neopentyl group; alternatively, a methyl group; alternatively, an ethyl group; alternatively, a n-propyl group; alternatively, an iso-propyl group; alternatively, a tert-butyl group; or alternatively, a neopentyl group.

Suitable alkenyl groups which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can include, but are not limited to, an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, a hexenyl group, a heptenyl group, an octenyl group, a nonenyl group, a decenyl group, a undecenyl group, a dodecenyl group, a tridecenyl group, a tetradecenyl group, a pentadecenyl group, a hexadecenyl group, a heptadecenyl group, or an octadecenyl group. Such alkenyl groups can be linear or branched, and the double bond can be located anywhere in the chain. In one aspect, X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can be an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, a hexenyl group, a heptenyl group, an octenyl group, a nonenyl group, or a decenyl group, while in another aspect, X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can be an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, or a hexenyl group. For example, X¹ and/or X² can be an ethenyl group; alternatively, a propenyl group; alternatively, a butenyl group; alternatively, a pentenyl group; or alternatively, a hexenyl group. In yet another aspect, X¹ and/or X² can be a terminal alkenyl group, such as a C₃ to C₁₈ terminal alkenyl group, a C₃ to C₁₂ terminal alkenyl group, or a C₃ to C₈ terminal alkenyl group. Illustrative terminal alkenyl groups can include, but are not limited to, a prop-2-en-1-yl group, a bute-3-en-1-yl group, a pent-4-en-1-yl group, a hex-5-en-1-yl group, a hept-6-en-1-yl group, an octe-7-en-1-yl group, a non-8-en-1-yl group, a dece-9-en-1-yl group, and so forth.

X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can be a cycloalkyl group, including, but not limited to, a cyclobutyl group, a substituted cyclobutyl group, a cyclopentyl group, a substituted cyclopentyl group, a cyclohexyl group, a substituted cyclohexyl group, a cycloheptyl group, a substituted cycloheptyl group, a cyclooctyl group, or a substituted cyclooctyl group. For example, X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can be a cyclopentyl group, a substituted cyclopentyl group, a cyclohexyl group, or a substituted cyclohexyl group. Moreover, X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can be a cyclobutyl group or a substituted cyclobutyl group; alternatively, a cyclopentyl group or a substituted cyclopentyl group; alternatively, a cyclohexyl group or a substituted cyclohexyl group; alternatively, a cycloheptyl group or a substituted cycloheptyl group; alternatively, a cyclooctyl group or a substituted cyclooctyl group; alternatively, a cyclopentyl group; alternatively, a substituted cyclopentyl group; alternatively, a cyclohexyl group; or alternatively, a substituted cyclohexyl group. Substituents which can be utilized for the substituted cycloalkyl group are independently disclosed herein and can be utilized without limitation to further describe the substituted cycloalkyl group which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia).

In some aspects, the aryl group which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can be a phenyl group, a substituted phenyl group, a naphthyl group, or a substituted naphthyl group. In an aspect, the aryl group can be a phenyl group or a substituted phenyl group; alternatively, a naphthyl group or a substituted naphthyl group; alternatively, a phenyl group or a naphthyl group; alternatively, a substituted phenyl group or a substituted naphthyl group; alternatively, a phenyl group; or alternatively, a naphthyl group. Substituents which can be utilized for the substituted phenyl groups or substituted naphthyl groups are independently disclosed herein and can be utilized without limitation to further describe the substituted phenyl groups or substituted naphthyl groups which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia).

In an aspect, the substituted phenyl group which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can be a 2-substituted phenyl group, a 3-substituted phenyl group, a 4-substituted phenyl group, a 2,4-disubstituted phenyl group, a 2,6-disubstituted phenyl group, a 3,5-disubstituted phenyl group, or a 2,4,6-trisubstituted phenyl group. In other aspects, the substituted phenyl group can be a 2-substituted phenyl group, a 4-substituted phenyl group, a 2,4-disubstituted phenyl group, or a 2,6-disubstituted phenyl group; alternatively, a 3-substituted phenyl group or a 3,5-disubstituted phenyl group; alternatively, a 2-substituted phenyl group or a 4-substituted phenyl group; alternatively, a 2,4-disubstituted phenyl group or a 2,6-disubstituted phenyl group; alternatively, a 2-substituted phenyl group; alternatively, a 3-substituted phenyl group; alternatively, a 4-substituted phenyl group; alternatively, a 2,4-disubstituted phenyl group; alternatively, a 2,6-disubstituted phenyl group; alternatively, a 3,5-disubstituted phenyl group; or alternatively, a 2,4,6-trisubstituted phenyl group. Substituents which can be utilized for these specific substituted phenyl groups are independently disclosed herein and can be utilized without limitation to further describe these substituted phenyl groups which can be the X¹ and/or X² group(s) in formula (Ia).

In some aspects, the aralkyl group which can be X¹ and/or X² group in formula (Ia) can be a benzyl group or a substituted benzyl group. In an aspect, the aralkyl group can be a benzyl group or, alternatively, a substituted benzyl group. Substituents which can be utilized for the substituted aralkyl group are independently disclosed herein and can be utilized without limitation to further describe the substituted aralkyl group which can be the X¹ and/or X² group(s) in formula (Ia).

In an aspect, each non-hydrogen substituent(s) for the substituted cycloalkyl group, substituted aryl group, or substituted aralkyl group which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) independently can be a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₈ hydrocarbyl group; or alternatively, a C₁ to C₅ hydrocarbyl group. Specific hydrocarbyl groups are independently disclosed herein and can be utilized without limitation to further describe the substituents of the substituted cycloalkyl groups, substituted aryl groups, or substituted aralkyl groups which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia). For instance, the hydrocarbyl substituent can be an alkyl group, such as a methyl group, an ethyl group, a n-propyl group, an isopropyl group, a n-butyl group, a sec-butyl group, an isobutyl group, a tert-butyl group, a n-pentyl group, a 2-pentyl group, a 3-pentyl group, a 2-methyl-1-butyl group, a tert-pentyl group, a 3-methyl-1-butyl group, a 3-methyl-2-butyl group, or a neo-pentyl group, and the like. Furthermore, the hydrocarbyl substituent can be a benzyl group, a phenyl group, a tolyl group, or a xylyl group, and the like.

A hydrocarboxy group is used generically herein to include, for instance, alkoxy, aryloxy, aralkoxy, and -(alkyl, aryl, or aralkyl)-O-(alkyl, aryl, or aralkyl) groups, and these groups can comprise up to about 36 carbon atoms (e.g., C₁ to C₃₆, C₁ to C₁₈, C₁ to C₁₀, or C₁ to C₈ hydrocarboxy groups). Illustrative and non-limiting examples of hydrocarboxy groups which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can include, but are not limited to, a methoxy group, an ethoxy group, an n-propoxy group, an isopropoxy group, an n-butoxy group, a sec-butoxy group, an isobutoxy group, a tert-butoxy group, an n-pentoxy group, a 2-pentoxy group, a 3-pentoxy group, a 2-methyl-1-butoxy group, a tert-pentoxy group, a 3-methyl-1-butoxy group, a 3-methyl-2-butoxy group, a neo-pentoxy group, a phenoxy group, a toloxy group, a xyloxy group, a 2,4,6-trimethylphenoxy group, a benzoxy group, an acetylacetonate group (acac), and the like. In an aspect, the hydrocarboxy group which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can be a methoxy group; alternatively, an ethoxy group; alternatively, an n-propoxy group; alternatively, an isopropoxy group; alternatively, an n-butoxy group; alternatively, a sec-butoxy group; alternatively, an isobutoxy group; alternatively, a tert-butoxy group; alternatively, an n-pentoxy group; alternatively, a 2-pentoxy group; alternatively, a 3-pentoxy group; alternatively, a 2-methyl-1-butoxy group; alternatively, a tert-pentoxy group; alternatively, a 3-methyl-1-butoxy group, alternatively, a 3-methyl-2-butoxy group; alternatively, a neo-pentoxy group; alternatively, a phenoxy group; alternatively, a toloxy group; alternatively, a xyloxy group; alternatively, a 2,4,6-trimethylphenoxy group; alternatively, a benzoxy group; or alternatively, an acetylacetonate group.

The term hydrocarbylaminyl group is used generically herein to refer collectively to, for instance, alkylaminyl, arylaminyl, aralkylaminyl, dialkylaminyl, diarylaminyl, diaralkylaminyl, and -(alkyl, aryl, or aralkyl)-N-(alkyl, aryl, or aralkyl) groups, and unless otherwise specified, the hydrocarbylaminyl groups which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can comprise up to about 36 carbon atoms (e.g., C₁ to C₃₆, C₁ to C₁₈, C₁ to C₁₀, or C₁ to C₈ hydrocarbylaminyl groups). Accordingly, hydrocarbylaminyl is intended to cover both (mono)hydrocarbylaminyl and dihydrocarbylaminyl groups. In some aspects, the hydrocarbylaminyl group which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can be, for instance, a methylaminyl group (—NHCH₃), an ethylaminyl group (—NHCH₂CH₃), an n-propylaminyl group (—NHCH₂CH₂CH₃), an iso-propylaminyl group (—NHCH(CH₃)₂), an n-butylaminyl group (—NHCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₃), a t-butylaminyl group (—NHC(CH₃)₃), an n-pentylaminyl group (—NHCH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₃), a neo-pentylaminyl group (—NHCH₂C(CH₃)₃), a phenylaminyl group (—NHC₆H₅), a tolylaminyl group (—NHC₆H₄—CH₃), or a xylylaminyl group (—NHC₆H₃(CH₃)₂); alternatively, a methylaminyl group; alternatively, an ethylaminyl group; alternatively, a propylaminyl group; or alternatively, a phenylaminyl group. In other aspects, the hydrocarbylaminyl group which can be X¹ and/or X² in formula (Ia) can be, for instance, a dimethylaminyl group (—N(CH₃)₂), a diethylaminyl group (—N(CH₂CH₃)₂), a di-n-propylaminyl group (—N(CH₂CH₂CH₃)₂), a di-iso-propylaminyl group (—N(CH(CH₃)₂)₂), a di-n-butylaminyl group (—N(CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₃)₂), a di-t-butylaminyl group (—N(C(CH₃)₃)₂), a di-n-pentylaminyl group (—N(CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₃)₂), a di-neo-pentylaminyl group (—N(CH₂C(CH₃)₃)₂), a di-phenylaminyl group (—N(C₆H₅)₂), a di-tolylaminyl group (—N(C₆H₄—CH₃)₂), or a di-xylylaminyl group (—N(C₆H₃(CH₃)₂)₂); alternatively, a dimethylaminyl group; alternatively, a di-ethylaminyl group; alternatively, a di-n-propylaminyl group; or alternatively, a di-phenylaminyl group.

In accordance with some aspects disclosed herein, one or both of X¹ and X² independently can be a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₂₄ hydrocarbylsilyl group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylsilyl group; or alternatively, a C₁ to C₈ hydrocarbylsilyl group. In an aspect, each hydrocarbyl (one or more) of the hydrocarbylsilyl group can be any hydrocarbyl group disclosed herein (e.g., a C₁ to C₅ alkyl group, a C₂ to C₅ alkenyl group, a C₅ to C₈ cycloalkyl group, a C₆ to C₈ aryl group, a C₇ to C₈ aralkyl group, etc.). As used herein, hydrocarbylsilyl is intended to cover (mono)hydrocarbylsilyl (—SiH₂R), dihydrocarbylsilyl (—SiHR₂), and trihydrocarbylsilyl (—SiR₃) groups, with R being a hydrocarbyl group. In one aspect, the hydrocarbylsilyl group can be a C₃ to C₃₆ or a C₃ to C₁₈ trihydrocarbylsilyl group, such as, for example, a trialkylsilyl group or a triphenylsilyl group. Illustrative and non-limiting examples of hydrocarbylsilyl groups which can be the X¹ and/or X² group(s) in formula (Ia) can include, but are not limited to, trimethylsilyl, triethylsilyl, tripropylsilyl (e.g., triisopropylsilyl), tributylsilyl, tripentylsilyl, triphenylsilyl, allyldimethylsilyl, and the like.

A hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group is used herein to refer to groups containing at least one hydrocarbon moiety, at least one N atom, and at least one Si atom. Illustrative and non-limiting examples of hydrocarbylaminylsilyl groups which can be X¹ and/or X² can include, but are not limited to —N(SiMe₃)₂, —N(SiEt₃)₂, and the like. Unless otherwise specified, the hydrocarbylaminylsilyl groups which can be X¹ and/or X² can comprise up to about 36 carbon atoms (e.g., C₁ to C₃₆, C₁ to C₁₈, C₁ to C₁₂, or C₁ to C₈ hydrocarbylaminylsilyl groups). In an aspect, each hydrocarbyl (one or more) of the hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group can be any hydrocarbyl group disclosed herein (e.g., a C₁ to C₅ alkyl group, a C₂ to C₅ alkenyl group, a C₅ to C₈ cycloalkyl group, a C₆ to C₈ aryl group, a C₇ to C₈ aralkyl group, etc.). Moreover, hydrocarbylaminylsilyl is intended to cover —NH(SiH₂R), —NH(SiHR₂), —NH(SiR₃), —N(SiH₂R)₂, —N(SiHR₂)₂, —N(SiR₃)₂, groups, among others, with R being a hydrocarbyl group.

In an aspect, X¹ and X² independently can be —OBR¹ ₂ or —OSO₂R¹, wherein R¹ is a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, or alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group. The hydrocarbyl group in OBR¹ ₂ and/or OSO₂R¹ independently can be any hydrocarbyl group disclosed herein, such as, for instance, a C₁ to C₁₈ alkyl group, a C₂ to C₁₈ alkenyl group, a C₄ to C₁₈ cycloalkyl group, a C₆ to C₁₈ aryl group, or a C₇ to C₁₈ aralkyl group; a C₁ to C₁₂ alkyl group, a C₂ to C₁₂ alkenyl group, a C₄ to C₁₂ cycloalkyl group, a C₆ to C₁₂ aryl group, or a C₇ to C₁₂ aralkyl group; or a C₁ to C₈ alkyl group, a C₂ to C₈ alkenyl group, a C₅ to C₈ cycloalkyl group, a C₆ to C₈ aryl group, or a C₇ to C₈ aralkyl group.

In one aspect, X¹ and X² independently can be H, BH₄, a halide, or a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, hydrocarboxy group, hydrocarbylaminyl group, hydrocarbylsilyl group, or hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group, while in another aspect, X¹ and X² independently can be H, BH₄, or a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarboxy group, hydrocarbylaminyl group, hydrocarbylsilyl group, or hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group. In yet another aspect, X¹ and X² independently can be a halide; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarboxy group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylaminyl group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylsilyl group; or alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group. In still another aspect, both X¹ and X² can be H; alternatively, F; alternatively, Cl; alternatively, Br; alternatively, I; alternatively, BH₄; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarboxy group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylaminyl group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylsilyl group; or alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group.

X¹ and X² independently can be, in some aspects, H, a halide, methyl, phenyl, benzyl, an alkoxy, an aryloxy, acetylacetonate, an alkylaminyl, a dialkylaminyl, a trihydrocarbylsilyl, or a hydrocarbylaminylsilyl; alternatively, H, a halide, methyl, phenyl, or benzyl; alternatively, an alkoxy, an aryloxy, or acetylacetonate; alternatively, an alkylaminyl or a dialkylaminyl; alternatively, a trihydrocarbylsilyl or hydrocarbylaminylsilyl; alternatively, H or a halide; alternatively, methyl, phenyl, benzyl, an alkoxy, an aryloxy, acetylacetonate, an alkylaminyl, or a dialkylaminyl; alternatively, H; alternatively, a halide; alternatively, methyl; alternatively, phenyl; alternatively, benzyl; alternatively, an alkoxy; alternatively, an aryloxy; alternatively, acetylacetonate; alternatively, an alkylaminyl; alternatively, a dialkylaminyl; alternatively, a trihydrocarbylsilyl; or alternatively, a hydrocarbylaminylsilyl. In these and other aspects, the alkoxy, aryloxy, alkylaminyl, dialkylaminyl, trihydrocarbylsilyl, and hydrocarbylaminylsilyl can be a C₁ to C₃₆, a C₁ to C₁₈, a C₁ to C₁₂, or a C₁ to C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, alkylaminyl, dialkylaminyl, trihydrocarbylsilyl, and hydrocarbylaminylsilyl.

Moreover, X¹ and X² independently can be, in certain aspects, a halide or a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group; alternatively, a halide or a C₁ to C₈ hydrocarbyl group; alternatively, F, Cl, Br, I, methyl, benzyl, or phenyl; alternatively, Cl, methyl, benzyl, or phenyl; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, alkylaminyl, dialkylaminyl, trihydrocarbylsilyl, or hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, alkylaminyl, dialkylaminyl, trihydrocarbylsilyl, or hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group; or alternatively, methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, pentyl, hexyl, heptyl, octyl, nonyl, decyl, ethenyl, propenyl, butenyl, pentenyl, hexenyl, heptenyl, octenyl, nonenyl, decenyl, phenyl, tolyl, benzyl, naphthyl, trimethylsilyl, triisopropylsilyl, triphenylsilyl, or allyldimethylsilyl.

In formula (Ia), each R^(B) and/or R^(C) independently can be a halide, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group. In some aspects, each R^(B) and/or R^(C) independently can be a halide; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ halogenated hydrocarbyl group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarboxy group; or alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylsilyl group. Importantly, each R^(B) and/or R_(C) can be either the same or a different substituent group. Moreover, each R^(B) and/or R^(C) can be at any of the four positions of the respective ring structure shown in formula (Ia). In an aspect, the number of R^(B)s and/or R^(C)s and/or the positions of each R^(B) and/or R^(C) are independent of each other. For instance, two or more R^(B)s can be different, or alternatively, all R^(B)s can be the same. Additionally or alternatively, two or more R^(C)s can be different, or alternatively, all R^(C)s can be the same. In another aspect, one or more of the R^(B)s can be different from the one or more of the R^(C)s, or alternatively, all R^(B)s can be the same as the R^(C)s. In these and other aspects, each R^(B) and/or R^(C) can be at any of the four positions of the respective ring structure shown in formula (Ia).

The halide, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, and C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group which can be a R^(B) and/or R^(C) in formula (Ia) can be any halide, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, and C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group described herein (e.g., as pertaining to X¹ and X² in formula (Ia)). A R^(B) and/or R^(C) in formula (Ia) can be, in certain aspects, a C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, where the halogenated hydrocarbyl group indicates the presence of one or more halogen atoms replacing an equivalent number of hydrogen atoms in the hydrocarbyl group. The halogenated hydrocarbyl group often can be a halogenated alkyl group, a halogenated alkenyl group, a halogenated cycloalkyl group, a halogenated aryl group, or a halogenated aralkyl group. Representative and non-limiting halogenated hydrocarbyl groups include pentafluorophenyl, trifluoromethyl (CF₃), and the like.

As a non-limiting example, each R^(B) and/or R^(C) in formula (Ia) independently can be Cl, CF₃, a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group (e.g., t-Bu), a pentyl group, a hexyl group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, a nonyl group, a decyl group, an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, a hexenyl group, a heptenyl group, an octenyl group, a nonenyl group, a decenyl group, a phenyl group, a tolyl group (or other substituted aryl group), a benzyl group, a naphthyl group, a trimethylsilyl group, a triisopropylsilyl group, a triphenylsilyl group, or an allyldimethylsilyl group; alternatively, Cl; alternatively, CF₃; alternatively, a methyl group; alternatively, an ethyl group; alternatively, a propyl group; alternatively, a butyl group; alternatively, a pentyl group; alternatively, a hexyl group; alternatively, a heptyl group; alternatively, an octyl group, a nonyl group; alternatively, a decyl group; alternatively, an ethenyl group; alternatively, a propenyl group; alternatively, a butenyl group; alternatively, a pentenyl group; alternatively, a hexenyl group; alternatively, a heptenyl group; alternatively, an octenyl group; alternatively, a nonenyl group; alternatively, a decenyl group; alternatively, a phenyl group; alternatively, a tolyl group; alternatively, a benzyl group; alternatively, a naphthyl group; alternatively, a trimethylsilyl group; alternatively, a triisopropylsilyl group; alternatively, a triphenylsilyl group; or alternatively, an allyldimethylsilyl group.

In formula (Ia), p can be 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4, and, independently, q can be 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4. In some aspects, p can be 0, 1, or 2, and q can be 0, 1, or 2, while in other aspects, p can be 0 or 2, and q can be 0 or 2. For instance, p can be equal to 0, q can be equal to 0, or both p and q can be equal to 0. Alternatively, p can be equal to 2, q can be equal to 2, or both p and q can be equal to 2. As noted above, each R^(B) and/or R^(C) can be either the same or a different substituent group. For example, when p is 2, 3, or 4, each R^(B) independently can be the same or different.

R^(A) in formula (Ia) can be a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group or C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, and these groups can be any C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group or C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group described herein (e.g., as pertaining to X¹, X², R^(B), and R^(C) in formula (Ia)). In some aspects, R^(A) can be a C₁ to C₂₄ hydrocarbyl group or a C₁ to C₂₄ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, while in other aspects, R^(A) can be a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group or a C₁ to C₁₈ halogenated hydrocarbyl group. For example, R^(A) can be a C₁ to C₁₂ hydrocarbyl group, such as a C₁ to C₁₂ alkyl group, a C₁ to C₁₀ alkyl group, a C₁ to C₈ alkyl group, a C₂ to C₈ alkyl group, a C₂ to C₁₂ alkenyl group, a C₂ to C₁₀ alkenyl group, a C₂ to C₈ alkenyl group, a C₃ to C₁₂ alkenyl group, a C₃ to C₁₀ alkenyl group, or a C₃ to C₈ alkenyl group, and the like. In one aspect, R^(A) can be a methyl group, ethyl group, propyl group, butyl group, pentyl group, hexyl group, heptyl group, octyl group, nonyl group, decyl group, ethenyl group, propenyl group, butenyl group, pentenyl group, hexenyl group, heptenyl group, octenyl group, nonenyl group, decenyl group, phenyl group, tolyl group, benzyl group, phenylethyl group, or naphthyl group. In another aspect, R^(A) can be a methyl group, ethyl group, propyl group, butyl group, pentyl group, hexyl group, propenyl group, butenyl group, pentenyl group, hexenyl group, phenyl group, benzyl group, or phenylethyl group. In yet another aspect, R^(A) can an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, a hexenyl group, a heptenyl group, an octenyl group, a nonenyl group, a decenyl group, a undecenyl group, a dodecenyl group, a tridecenyl group, a tetradecenyl group, a pentadecenyl group, a hexadecenyl group, a heptadecenyl group, or an octadecenyl group; alternatively, an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, a hexenyl group, a heptenyl group, an octenyl group, a nonenyl group, or a decenyl group; alternatively, an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, or a hexenyl group; alternatively, an ethenyl group; alternatively, a propenyl group; alternatively, a butenyl group; alternatively, a pentenyl group; or alternatively, a hexenyl group. In still another aspect, R^(A) can be a terminal alkenyl group, such as a C₃ to C₃₆ terminal alkenyl group, a C₃ to C₂₄ terminal alkenyl group, a C₃ to C₁₈ terminal alkenyl group, a C₃ to C₁₂ terminal alkenyl group, or a C₃ to C₈ terminal alkenyl group.

In another embodiment of this invention, the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound can have the formula:

Within formula (Ib), M, X¹, X², R^(A), R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) are independent elements of the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound. Accordingly, the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound having formula (Ib) can be described using any combination of M, X¹, X², R^(A), R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) disclosed herein.

The selections for M, X¹, X², and R^(A) in formula (Ib) are the same as those described herein above for formula (Ia). R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) independently can be a halide, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group, and these groups can be any halide, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group described herein (e.g., as pertaining to R^(B) and R^(C) in formula (Ia)).

In one aspect, for example, R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) independently can be a methyl group, ethyl group, propyl group, butyl group (e.g., t-Bu), pentyl group, hexyl group, propenyl group, butenyl group, pentenyl group, hexenyl group, phenyl group, tolyl group, benzyl group, trimethylsilyl group, triisopropylsilyl group, triphenylsilyl group, allyldimethylsilyl group, CF₃, or Cl. In another aspect, R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) independently can be a methyl group, ethyl group, propyl group, butyl group, pentyl group, hexyl group, propenyl group, butenyl group, pentenyl group, hexenyl group, phenyl group, tolyl group, or benzyl group. In yet another aspect, at least one of R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) (or alternatively, each of R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2)) can be a methyl group; alternatively, an ethyl group; alternatively, a propyl group; alternatively, a butyl group; alternatively, a pentyl group; alternatively, a hexyl group; alternatively, a propenyl group; alternatively, a butenyl group; alternatively, a pentenyl group; alternatively, a hexenyl group; alternatively, a phenyl group; alternatively, a tolyl group; alternatively, a benzyl group; alternatively, a trimethylsilyl group; alternatively, a triisopropylsilyl group; alternatively, a triphenylsilyl group; alternatively, an allyldimethylsilyl group; alternatively, CF₃; or alternatively, Cl. In these and other aspects, R^(A) in formula (Ib) can be a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group or C₁ to C₁₈ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, examples of which can include, but are not limited to, a methyl group, ethyl group, propyl group, butyl group, pentyl group, hexyl group, propenyl group, butenyl group, pentenyl group, hexenyl group, phenyl group, benzyl group, phenylethyl group, and the like.

Illustrative and non-limiting examples of N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compounds having formula (Ia) and formula (Ib) can include, but are not limited to, compounds TM-1, TM-2, and TM-3 illustrated in FIG. 1.

Methods of making transition metal complexes of the present invention also are provided herein. Examples 1-8 that follow provide representative procedures for synthesizing compounds having formula (Ia) and formula (Ib), or for synthesizing precursor compounds useful in the subsequent synthesis of compounds having formula (Ia) and formula (Ib). Additional methods for preparing compounds having formula (Ia) and formula (Ib) can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,333,423 and 6,596,827, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Using analogous synthesis schemes to those provided herein or known to those of skill in the art, transition metal complexes similar to TM-1, TM-2, and TM-3, but with monoanionic ligands other than benzyl (e.g., halide, hydrocarbylaminyl, hydrocarbylsilyl, other hydrocarbyl, etc.), and/or with substituents other than tert-butyl (e.g., halide, hydrocarboxy, hydrocarbylsilyl, other hydrocarbyl, etc.), can be derived.

In another embodiment of this invention, the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound can have the formula:

Within formula (IIa), M, X¹, X², R^(B), R^(C), p, q, L, and D are independent elements of the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound. Accordingly, the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound having formula (IIa) can be described using any combination of M, X¹, X², R^(B), R^(C), p, q, L, and D disclosed herein.

The selections for M, X¹, X², R^(B), R^(C), p, and q in formula (IIa) are the same as those described herein above for formula (Ia). For instance, M can be Ti, Zr, or Hf; alternatively, M can be Ti; alternatively, M can be Zr; or alternatively, M can be Hf. X¹ and X² in formula (IIa) independently can be any monoanionic ligand disclosed herein, and this includes, but is not limited to, H, BH₄, a halide, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylaminyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group, —OBR¹ ₂, or —OSO₂R¹, wherein R¹ is a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group. In some aspects, it is contemplated that X¹ and X² independently can be a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarboxy group, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylaminyl group, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylsilyl group, or a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group, while in other aspects, X¹ and X² independently can be a halide or a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group. In formula (IIa), each R^(B) and/or R^(C) independently can be any halide, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group disclosed herein. For example, each R^(B) and/or R^(C) independently can be Cl, CF₃, a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group (e.g., t-Bu), a pentyl group, a hexyl group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, a nonyl group, a decyl group, an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, a hexenyl group, a heptenyl group, an octenyl group, a nonenyl group, a decenyl group, a phenyl group, a tolyl group, a benzyl group, a naphthyl group, a trimethylsilyl group, a triisopropylsilyl group, a triphenylsilyl group, or an allyldimethylsilyl group. The integers, p and q, independently can be 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4, such as, for instance, p can be 0, 1, or 2, and q can be 0, 1, or 2.

L in formula (IIa) can be a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylene group. Selections for the C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylene group can be any C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group disclosed herein from which another hydrogen atom can be removed. In one aspect, the hydrocarbylene group which can be L in formula (IIa) can be a C₁ to C₁₈ alkylene group, a C₄ to C₁₈ cycloalkylene group, a C₆ to C₁₈ arylene group, or a C₇ to C₁₈ aralkylene group. In another aspect, L can be a C₂ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylene group, a C₂ to C₁₅ hydrocarbylene group, a C₂ to C₈ hydrocarbylene group, a C₂ to C₄ hydrocarbylene group, a C₁ to C₁₅ hydrocarbylene group, a C₁ to C₈ hydrocarbylene group, or a C₁ to C₄ hydrocarbylene group. In yet another aspect, L can be a C₁ to C₁₅ alkylene group, a C₄ to C₁₅ cycloalkylene group, a C₆ to C₁₅ arylene group, or a C₇ to C₁₅ aralkylene group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₂ alkylene group, a C₄ to C₁₂ cycloalkylene group, a C₆ to C₁₂ arylene group, or a C₇ to C₁₂ aralkylene group; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₀ alkylene group, a C₄ to C₁₀ cycloalkylene group, a C₆ to C₁₀ arylene group, or a C₇ to C₁₀ aralkylene group; or alternatively, a C₂ to C₅ alkylene group, a C₅ to C₈ cycloalkylene group, a C₆ to C₈ arylene group, or a C₇ to C₈ aralkylene group.

In some aspects, the alkylene group which can be L in formula (IIa) can be a methylene group, an ethylene group, a propylene group, a butylene group, a pentylene group, a hexylene group, a heptylene group, an octylene group, a nonylene group, a decylene group, a undecylene group, a dodecylene group, a tridecylene group, a tetradecylene group, a pentadecylene group, a hexadecylene group, a heptadecylene group, or an octadecylene group; alternatively, a methylene group, an ethylene group, a propylene group, a butylene group, a pentylene group, a hexylene group, a heptylene group, an octylene group, a nonylene group, or a decylene group; alternatively, a methylene group, an ethylene group, a propylene group, a butylene group, or a pentylene group. In other aspects, L can be a methylene group; alternatively, an ethylene group (—CH₂CH₂—); alternatively, a propylene group; alternatively, a butylene group; alternatively, a pentylene group; alternatively, a hexylene group; alternatively, a heptylene group; alternatively, an octylene group; alternatively, a nonylene group; alternatively, a decylene group; alternatively, a undecylene group; alternatively, a dodecylene group; alternatively, a tridecylene group; alternatively, a tetradecylene group; alternatively, a pentadecylene group; alternatively, a hexadecylene group; alternatively, a heptadecylene group; or alternatively, an octadecylene group. Moreover, L can be an eth-1,2-ylene group, a prop-1,3-ylene group, a but-1,4-ylene group, a but-2,3-ylene group, a pent-1,5-ylene group, a 2,2-dimethylprop-1,3-ylene group, a hex-1,6-ylene group, or a 2,3-dimethylbut-2,3-ylene group; alternatively, an eth-1,2-ylene group, a prop-1,3-ylene group, a but-1,4-ylene group, a pent-1,5-ylene group, or a hex-1,6-ylene group; alternatively, an eth-1,2-ylene group; alternatively, a prop-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a but-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a but-2,3-ylene group; alternatively, a pent-1,5-ylene group; alternatively, a 2,2-dimethylprop-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a hex-1,6-ylene group; or alternatively, a 2,3-dimethylbut-2,3-ylene group.

L in formula (IIa) can be a cycloalkylene group, including, but not limited to, a cyclobutylene group, a substituted cyclobutylene group, a cyclopentylene group, a substituted cyclopentylene group, a cyclohexylene group, a substituted cyclohexylene group, a cycloheptylene group, a substituted cycloheptylene group, a cyclooctylene group, or a substituted cyclooctylene group. For example, L can be a cyclobutylene group or a substituted cyclobutylene group; alternatively, a cyclopentylene group or a substituted cyclopentylene group; alternatively, a cyclohexylene group or a substituted cyclohexylene group; alternatively, a cycloheptylene group or a substituted cycloheptylene group; alternatively, a cyclooctylene group or a substituted cyclooctylene group; alternatively, a cyclopentylene group; alternatively, a substituted cyclopentylene group; alternatively, a cyclohexylene group; or alternatively, a substituted cyclohexylene group. In an aspect, L can be a cyclopent-1,3-ylene group, a substituted cyclopent-1,3-ylene group, a cyclohex-1,3-ylene group, a substituted cyclohex-1,3-ylene group, a cyclohex-1,4-ylene group, or a substituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a cyclopent-1,3-ylene group, a cyclohex-1,3-ylene group, or a cyclohex-1,4-ylene group. In another aspect, L can be a cyclopent-1,3-ylene group or a substituted cyclopent-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a cyclohex-1,3-ylene group, a substituted cyclohex-1,3-ylene group, a cyclohex-1,4-ylene group, or a substituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a cyclohex-1,3-ylene group or a substituted cyclohex-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a cyclohex-1,4-ylene group or a substituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a cyclopent-1,3-ylene group, a cyclohex-1,3-ylene group, or a cyclohex-1,4-ylene group; or alternatively, a substituted cyclopent-1,3-ylene group, a substituted cyclohex-1,3-ylene group, or a substituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group. In another aspect, L can be a cyclopent-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a substituted cyclopent-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a cyclohex-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a substituted cyclohex-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a cyclohex-1,4-ylene group; or alternatively, a substituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group. In another aspect, L can be a 2-substituted cyclopen-1,3-ylene group, a 4,5-disubstituted cyclopen-1,3-ylene group, a 2,5-disubstituted cyclopen-1,3-ylene group, or a 2,4,5-trisubstituted cyclopen-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a 2-substituted cyclopen-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a 4,5-disubstituted cyclopen-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a 2,5-disubstituted cyclopen-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a 2,4,5-trisubstituted cyclopen-1,3-ylene group. In another aspect, L can be a 2,6-disubstituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group, a 2,3-disubstituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group, a 2,5-disubstituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group, or a 2,3,5,6-tetrasubstituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group. In another aspect, L can be a 2,6-disubstituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group or a 2,5-disubstituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a 2,6-disubstituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a 2,3-disubstituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a 2,5-disubstituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group; or alternatively, a 2,3,5,6-tetrasubstituted cyclohex-1,4-ylene group. In yet another aspect, L can be a 2-substituted cyclohex-1,3-ylene group, a 2,4-disubstituted cyclohex-1,3-ylene group, a 4,6-disubstituted cyclohex-1,3-ylene group, or a 2,4,6-trisubstituted cyclohex-1,3-ylene group. In still another aspect, L can be a 2-substituted cyclohex-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a 2,4-disubstituted cyclohex-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a 4,6-disubstituted cyclohex-1,3-ylene group; or alternatively, a 2,4,6-trisubstituted cyclohex-1,3-ylene group. The substituent(s) for a substituted cycloalkylene group in formula (IIa) can be any substituent (e.g., a C₁ to C₁₂ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₈ alkyl group, etc.) disclosed herein above, e.g., in relation to substituted cycloalkyl groups in formula (Ia).

In formula (IIa), L can be an arylene group, e.g., a phenylene group, a substituted phenylene group, a naphthylene group, or a substituted naphthylene group. In one aspect, L can be a phenylene group; alternatively, a substituted phenylene group; alternatively, a naphthylene group; or alternatively, a substituted naphthylene group. In another aspect, L can be a phen-1,2-ylene group or a substituted phen-1,2-ylene group; alternatively, a phen-1,2-ylene group; or alternatively, a substituted phen-1,2-ylene group. In another aspect, L can be a phen-1,3-ylene group or a substituted phen-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a phen-1,3-ylene group; or alternatively, a substituted phen-1,3-ylene group. In another aspect, L can be a phen-1,4-ylene group or a substituted phen-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a phen-1,4-ylene group; or alternatively, a substituted phen-1,4-ylene group. In another aspect, L can be a phen-1,2-ylene group, a phen-1,3-ylene group, or a phen-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a phen-1,3-ylene group or a phen-1,4-ylene group. In another aspect, L can be a substituted phen-1,2-ylene group, a substituted phen-1,3-ylene group, or a substituted phen-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a substituted phen-1,3-ylene group or a substituted phen-1,4-ylene group. In another aspect, L can be a 2,6-disubstituted phen-1,4-ylene group, a 2,3-disubstituted phen-1,4-ylene group, a 2,5-disubstituted phen-1,4-ylene group, or a 2,3,5,6-tetrasubstituted phen-1,4-ylene group. In another aspect, L can be a 2,6-disubstituted phen-1,4-ylene group or a 2,5-disubstituted phen-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a 2,6-disubstituted phen-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a 2,3-disubstituted phen-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a 2,5-disubstituted phen-1,4-ylene group; or alternatively, a 2,3,5,6-tetrasubstituted phen-1,4-ylene group. In yet another aspect, L can be a 2-substituted phen-1,3-ylene group, a 2,4-disubstituted phen-1,3-ylene group, a 4,6-disubstituted phen-1,3-ylene group, or a 2,4,6-trisubstituted phen-1,3-ylene group. In still another aspect, L can be a 2-substituted phen-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a 2,4-disubstituted phen-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a 4,6-disubstituted phen-1,3-ylene group; or alternatively, a 2,4,6-trisubstituted phen-1,3-ylene group. In some aspects, L can be a naphth-1,3-ylene group, a substituted naphth-1,3-ylene group, a naphth-1,4-ylene group, a substituted naphth-1,4-ylene group, a naphth-1,5-ylene group, a substituted naphth-1,5-ylene group, a naphth-1,6-ylene group, a substituted naphth-1,6-ylene group, a naphth-1,7-ylene group, a substituted naphth-1,7-ylene group, a naphth-1,8-ylene group, or a substituted naphth-1,8-ylene group. In other aspects, L can be a naphth-1,3-ylene group or a substituted naphth-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a naphth-1,4-ylene group or a substituted naphth-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a naphth-1,5-ylene group or a substituted naphth-1,5-ylene group; alternatively, a naphth-1,6-ylene group or a substituted naphth-1,6-ylene group; alternatively, a naphth-1,7-ylene group or a substituted naphth-1,7-ylene group; or alternatively, a naphth-1,8-ylene group or a substituted naphth-1,8-ylene group. Yet, in other aspects, L can be a naphth-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a substituted naphth-1,3-ylene group; alternatively, a naphth-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a substituted naphth-1,4-ylene group; alternatively, a naphth-1,5-ylene group; alternatively, a substituted naphth-1,5-ylene group; alternatively, a naphth-1,6-ylene group; alternatively, a substituted naphth-1,6-ylene group; alternatively, a naphth-1,7-ylene group; alternatively, a substituted naphth-1,7-ylene group; alternatively, a naphth-1,8-ylene group; or alternatively, a substituted naphth-1,8-ylene group. The substituent(s) for a substituted arylene group in formula (IIa) can be any substituent (e.g., a C₁ to C₁₂ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₈ alkyl group, etc.) disclosed herein above, e.g., in relation to substituted aryl groups in formula (Ia).

In an aspect, L can be a di(methylene)benzene group or a substituted di(methylene)benzene group; or alternatively, a di(methylene)benzene group. In another aspect, L can be a 1,2-di(methylene)benzene group, a substituted 1,2-di(methylene)benzene group, a 1,3-di(methylene)benzene group, a substituted 1,3-di(methylene)benzene group, a 1,4-di(methylene)benzene group, or a substituted 1,4-di(methylene)benzene group; alternatively, a 1,2-di(methylene)benzene group, a 1,3-di(methylene)benzene group, or a 1,4-di(methylene)benzene group. In yet another aspect, L can be a 1,2-di(methylene)benzene group or a substituted 1,2-di(methylene)benzene group; alternatively, a 1,3-di(methylene)benzene group or a substituted 1,3-di(methylene)benzene group; alternatively, a 1,4-di(methylene)benzene group or a substituted 1,4-di(methylene)benzene group; alternatively, a 1,2-di(methylene)benzene group; alternatively, a 1,3-di(methylene)benzene group; or alternatively, a 1,4-di(methylene)benzene group. The substituent(s) for a substituted di(methylene)benzene group in formula (IIa) can be any substituent (e.g., a C₁ to C₁₂ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₈ alkyl group, etc.) disclosed herein above, e.g., in relation to substituted aryl groups in formula (Ia).

In formula (IIa), D can be a chemical group comprising at least one of nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur. In some aspects, the heteroatom-containing D group can complex and/or coordinate with the metal, M. D can be a C₁ to C₃₆ group comprising at least one of nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur; alternatively, a C₁ to C₂₄ group comprising at least one of nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₈ group comprising at least one of nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur; alternatively, a C₁ to C₁₀ group comprising at least one of nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur; or alternatively, a C₁ to C₅ group comprising at least one of nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur. In some aspects, the heteroatom can be oxygen; alternatively, sulfur; alternatively, nitrogen; alternatively, phosphorus; alternatively, nitrogen and oxygen; or alternatively, nitrogen and sulfur. Hence, D can contain more than one heteroatom (e.g., nitrogen and oxygen, two nitrogens, etc.). Optionally, D can contain inert heteroatoms other than nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur, which do not complex and/or coordinate with the metal (e.g., halides or silicon).

In an aspect, D can be a dihydrocarbyl aminyl group, a dihydrocarbyl phosphinyl group, a hydrocarbyl etheryl group, or a hydrocarbyl sulfidyl group. In another aspect, D can be a dihydrocarbyl aminyl group; alternatively, a dihydrocarbyl phosphinyl group; alternatively, a hydrocarbyl etheryl group; or alternatively, a hydrocarbyl sulfidyl group. In these and other aspects, each hydrocarbyl group of the dihydrocarbyl aminyl group, the dihydrocarbyl phosphinyl group, the hydrocarbyl etheryl group, and the hydrocarbyl sulfidyl group can be any hydrocarbyl group disclosed herein, such as, for example, an alkyl group, an alkenyl group, a cycloalkyl group, an aryl group, or an aralkyl group; alternatively, an alkyl group; alternatively, an alkenyl group; alternatively, a cycloalkyl group; alternatively, an aryl group; or alternatively, an aralkyl group. Suitable alkyl groups, alkenyl groups, cycloalkyl groups, aryl groups, and aralkyl groups are independently disclosed herein and can be utilized without limitation to further describe D in formula (IIa).

In accordance with an aspect of the invention, D can be a dialkylaminyl group, a dicycloalkylaminyl group, a di(substituted cycloalkyl)aminyl group, an N-(alkyl)-N-(cycloalkyl)aminyl group, an N-(alkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)aminyl group, an N-(cycloalkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)aminyl group, a diarylaminyl group, a di(substituted aryl)aminyl group, an N-aryl N-(substituted aryl)aminyl group, an N-alkyl N-arylaminyl group, an N-alkyl N-(substituted aryl)aminyl group, a dialkylphosphinyl group, a dicycloalkylphosphinyl group, a di(substituted cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group), an N (alkyl)-N-(cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group, an N-(alkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group, an N-(cycloalkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group, a diarylphosphinyl group, a di(substituted aryl)phosphinyl group, a P-aryl P-(substituted aryl)phosphinyl group, a P-alkyl P-arylphosphinyl group, a P-alkyl P-(substituted aryl)phosphinyl group, an alkoxy group, an aroxy group, a substituted aroxy group, an alkylsulfidyl group, an arylsulfidyl group, a substituted arylsulfidyl group, a furanyl group, a substituted furanyl group, a thienyl group, a substituted thienyl group, a tetrahydrofuranyl group, a substituted tetrahydrofuranyl group, a thiophanyl group, a substituted thiophanyl group, a pyridinyl group, a substituted pyridinyl group, a morphilinyl group, a substituted morphilinyl group, a pyranyl group, a substituted pyranyl group, a tetrahydropyranyl group, a substituted tetrahydropyranyl group, a quinolinyl group, a substituted quinolinyl group, a pyrrolyl group, a substituted pyrrolyl group, a pyrrolidinyl group, a substituted pyrrolidinyl group, a piperidinyl group, or a substituted piperidinyl group. For any of the cyclic or heterocyclic groups, L can bond to any position of the respective ring structure that is consistent with the rules of chemical valence. For any of the substituted groups, the substituent(s) can be any substituent (e.g., a C₁ to C₁₂ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₈ alkyl group, etc.) disclosed herein, such as above in relation to substituted groups pertaining to formula (Ia). Similarly, the alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, and aralkyl groups can be any alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, and aralkyl, groups disclosed herein.

In another aspect, D can be a dialkylaminyl group, a dicycloalkylaminyl group, a di(substituted cycloalkyl)aminyl group, an N-(alkyl)-N-(cycloalkyl)aminyl group, an N-(alkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)aminyl group, an N-(cycloalkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)aminyl group, a diarylaminyl group, a di(substituted aryl)aminyl group, an N-aryl N-(substituted aryl)aminyl group, an N-alkyl N-arylaminyl group, or an N-alkyl N-(substituted aryl)aminyl group. In another aspect, D can be a dialkylphosphinyl group, a dicycloalkylphosphinyl group, a di(substituted cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group), an N (alkyl)-N-(cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group, an N-(alkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group, an N-(cycloalkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group, a diarylphosphinyl group, a di(substituted aryl)phosphinyl group, a P-aryl P-(substituted aryl)phosphinyl group, a P-alkyl P-arylphosphinyl group, or a P-alkyl P-(substituted aryl)phosphinyl group. In another aspect, D can be an alkoxy group, an aroxy group, or a substituted aroxy group. Yet, in another aspect, D can be an alkylsulfidyl group, an arylsulfidyl group, or a substituted arylsulfidyl group. In still another aspect, D can be a furanyl group, a substituted furanyl group, a thienyl group, a substituted thienyl group, a tetrahydrofuranyl group, a substituted tetrahydrofuranyl group, a thiophanyl group, a substituted thiophanyl group, a pyridinyl group, a substituted pyridinyl group, a morphilinyl group, a substituted morphilinyl group, a pyranyl group, a substituted pyranyl group, a tetrahydropyranyl group, a substituted tetrahydropyranyl group, a quinolinyl group, a substituted quinolinyl group, a pyrrolyl group, a substituted pyrrolyl group, a pyrrolidinyl group, a substituted pyrrolidinyl group, a piperidinyl group, or a substituted piperidinyl group.

In another aspect, D can be a dialkylaminyl group; alternatively, a dicycloalkylaminyl group; alternatively, a di(substituted cycloalkyl)aminyl group; alternatively, an N-(alkyl)-N-(cycloalkyl)aminyl group; alternatively, an N-(alkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)aminyl group; alternatively, an N-(cycloalkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)aminyl group; alternatively, a diarylaminyl group; alternatively, a di(substituted aryl)aminyl group; alternatively, an N-aryl N-(substituted aryl)aminyl group; alternatively, an N-alkyl N-arylaminyl group; alternatively, an N-alkyl N-(substituted aryl)aminyl group; alternatively, a dialkylphosphinyl group; alternatively, a dicycloalkylphosphinyl group; alternatively, a di(substituted cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group); alternatively, an N (alkyl)-N-(cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group; alternatively, an N-(alkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group; alternatively, an N-(cycloalkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group; alternatively, a diarylphosphinyl group; alternatively, a di(substituted aryl)phosphinyl group; alternatively, a P-aryl P-(substituted aryl)phosphinyl group; alternatively, a P-alkyl P-arylphosphinyl group; alternatively, a P-alkyl P-(substituted aryl)phosphinyl group; alternatively, an alkoxy group; alternatively, an aroxy group; alternatively, a substituted aroxy group; alternatively, an alkylsulfidyl group; alternatively, an arylsulfidyl group; alternatively, a substituted arylsulfidyl group; alternatively, a furanyl group; alternatively, a substituted furanyl group; alternatively, a thienyl group; alternatively, a substituted thienyl group; alternatively, a tetrahydrofuranyl group; alternatively, a substituted tetrahydrofuranyl group; alternatively, a thiophanyl group; alternatively, a substituted thiophanyl group; alternatively, a pyridinyl group; alternatively, a substituted pyridinyl group; alternatively, a morphilinyl group; alternatively, a substituted morphilinyl group; alternatively, a pyranyl group; alternatively, a substituted pyranyl group; alternatively, a tetrahydropyranyl group; alternatively, a substituted tetrahydropyranyl group; alternatively, a quinolinyl group; alternatively, a substituted quinolinyl group; alternatively, a pyrrolyl group; alternatively, a substituted pyrrolyl group; alternatively, a pyrrolidinyl group; alternatively, a substituted pyrrolidinyl group; alternatively, a piperidinyl group; or alternatively, a substituted piperidinyl group.

In an aspect, D in formula (IIa) can have Structure Q1, Structure Q2, Structure Q3, Structure Q4, Structure Q5, Structure Q6, Structure Q7, Structure Q8, Structure Q9, Structure Q10, Structure Q11, Structure Q12, Structure Q13, Structure Q14, Structure Q15, Structure Q16, Structure Q17, Structure Q18, Structure Q19, Structure Q20, Structure Q21, or Structure Q22, and these structures are illustrated in the table below.

Table of Structures Q1 to Q22 —OR^(q1) Structure Q1 —SR^(q2) Structure Q2 —NR^(q3)R^(q4) Structure Q3 —PR^(q5)R^(q6) Structure Q4

Structure Q5

Structure Q6

Structure Q7

Structure Q8

Structure Q9

Structure Q10

Structure Q11

Structure Q12

Structure Q13

Structure Q14

Structure Q15

Structure Q16

Structure Q17

Structure Q18

Structure Q19

Structure Q20

Structure Q21

Structure Q22

In another aspect, D can have Structure Q1, Structure Q2, Structure Q3, Structure Q4, Structure Q5, Structure Q6, Structure Q7, Structure Q8, Structure Q9, Structure Q10, Structure Q11, Structure Q12, Structure Q13, Structure Q16, Structure Q17, Structure Q18, Structure Q19, or Structure Q20. In yet another aspect, D can have Structure Q1, Structure Q2, Structure Q3, or Structure Q4; alternatively, Structure Q1 or Structure Q2; alternatively, Structure Q3 or Structure Q4; alternatively, Structure Q5 or Structure Q6; alternatively, Structure Q7 or Structure Q10; alternatively, Structure Q8 or Structure Q9; alternatively, Structure Q11 or Structure Q12; alternatively, Structure Q11 or Structure Q13; alternatively, Structure Q19 or Structure Q20; alternatively, Structure Q1; alternatively, Structure Q2; alternatively, Structure Q3; alternatively, Structure Q4; alternatively, Structure Q5; alternatively, Structure Q6; alternatively, Structure Q7; alternatively, Structure Q8; alternatively, Structure Q9; alternatively, Structure Q10; alternatively, Structure Q11; alternatively, Structure Q12; alternatively, Structure 13; alternatively, Structure Q16; alternatively, Structure Q17; alternatively, Structure Q18; alternatively, Structure Q19; or alternatively, Structure Q20. In still another aspect, D can have Structure Q14, Structure Q15, Structure Q21, or Structure Q22; alternatively, Structure Q14 or Structure Q15; alternatively, Structure Q21 or Structure Q22; alternatively, Structure Q14; alternatively, Structure Q15; alternatively, Structure Q21; or alternatively, Structure Q22.

In some aspects, R^(q1), R^(q2), R^(q3), R^(q4), R^(q5), and R^(q6) within Structure Q1, Structure Q2, Structure Q3, or Structure Q4 can be any C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₁₅ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₁₀ hydrocarbyl group, or C₁ to C₅ hydrocarbyl group disclosed herein. For instance, R^(q1), R^(q2), R^(q3), R^(q4), R^(q5), and R^(q6) within Structure Q1, Structure Q2, Structure Q3, or Structure Q4 independently can be any C₁ to C₁₈ alkyl group, C₄ to C₁₈ cycloalkyl group, C₆ to C₁₈ aryl group, C₇ to C₁₈ aralkyl group, or C₂ to C₁₈ alkenyl group disclosed herein, or any C₁ to C₅ alkyl group, C₄ to C₈ cycloalkyl group, C₆ to C₁₀ aryl group, C₇ to C₁₀ aralkyl group, or C₃ to C₈ alkenyl group (e.g., propenyl, butenyl, pentenyl, etc.) disclosed herein. In a similar manner, R^(q21) in Structure Q8, Structure Q9, and Structure Q10 can be any C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group (e.g., alkyl group, cycloalkyl group, aryl group, aralkyl group, alkenyl group, etc.) disclosed herein.

In some aspects, each R^(q11), R^(q12), R^(q13), R^(q14), R^(q15), R^(q16), R^(q17), R^(q18), R^(q19), R^(q20), R^(q31), R^(q32), R^(q33), R^(q34), R^(q35), R^(q41), R^(q42), R^(q43), R^(q44), R^(q45), R^(q51), R^(q52), R^(q53), R^(q54), R^(q61), R^(q62), R^(q63), R^(q71), R^(q72), R^(q73), R^(q74), R^(q75), R^(q76), R^(q77), R^(q78), R^(q79), and/or R^(q80) of Structures Q5-Q22 independently can be hydrogen or any C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group disclosed herein. Accordingly, each R^(q11)-R^(q20), R^(q31)-R^(q35), R^(q41)-R^(q45), R^(q51)-R^(q54), R^(q61)-R^(q63), and/or R^(q71)-R^(q80) non-hydrogen substituent in Structures Q5-Q22 can be any alkyl group, cycloalkyl group, aryl group, aralkyl group, alkenyl group, etc., disclosed herein.

In particular aspects contemplated herein, D in formula (IIa) can be —N(CH₃)₂, —P(CH₃)₂, —N(CH₂CH₃)₂, —P(CH₂CH₃)₂, —N(Ph)₂, —P(Ph)₂, —OCH₃, —SCH₃, —OCH₂CH₃, —SCH₂CH₃, —OPh, or —SPh. For instance, D can be —N(CH₃)₂, —P(CH₃)₂, —N(CH₂CH₃)₂, —P(CH₂CH₃)₂, —N(Ph)₂, or —P(Ph)₂; alternatively, —OCH₃, —SCH₃, —OCH₂CH₃, —SCH₂CH₃, —OPh, or —SPh; alternatively, —N(CH₃)₂, —P(CH₃)₂, —N(CH₂CH₃)₂, —P(CH₂CH₃)₂; alternatively, —N(Ph)₂, or —P(Ph)₂; alternatively, —OCH₃, —SCH₃, —OCH₂CH₃, or —SCH₂CH₃; or alternatively, —OPh or —SPh.

In another embodiment of this invention, the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound can have the formula:

Within formula (IIb), M, X¹, X², L, D, R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) are independent elements of the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound. Accordingly, the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound having formula (IIb) can be described using any combination of M, X¹, X², L, D, R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1) and R^(C2) disclosed herein.

The selections for M, X¹, X², L, and D in formula (IIb) are the same as those described herein above for formula (IIa). R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1) and R^(C2) independently can be a halide, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group, and these groups can be any halide, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group described herein (e.g., as pertaining to R^(B) and R^(C) in formula (Ia)).

In one aspect, for example, R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) independently can be a methyl group, ethyl group, propyl group, butyl group (e.g., t-Bu), pentyl group, hexyl group, propenyl group, butenyl group, pentenyl group, hexenyl group, phenyl group, tolyl group, benzyl group, trimethylsilyl group, triisopropylsilyl group, triphenylsilyl group, allyldimethylsilyl group, CF₃, or Cl. In another aspect, R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) independently can be a methyl group, ethyl group, propyl group, butyl group, pentyl group, hexyl group, propenyl group, butenyl group, pentenyl group, hexenyl group, phenyl group, tolyl group, or benzyl group. In yet another aspect, at least one of R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) (or alternatively, each of R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2)) can be a methyl group; alternatively, an ethyl group; alternatively, a propyl group; alternatively, a butyl group; alternatively, a pentyl group; alternatively, a hexyl group; alternatively, a propenyl group; alternatively, a butenyl group; alternatively, a pentenyl group; alternatively, a hexenyl group; alternatively, a phenyl group; alternatively, a tolyl group; alternatively, a benzyl group; alternatively, a trimethylsilyl group; alternatively, a triisopropylsilyl group; alternatively, a triphenylsilyl group; alternatively, an allyldimethylsilyl group; alternatively, CF₃; or alternatively, Cl. In these and other aspects, L in formula (Ib) can be a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylene group, examples of which can include, but are not limited to, a C₁ to C₄ alkylene group, a C₅ to C₈ cycloalkylene group, a C₆ to C₈ arylene group, a C₇ to C₈ aralkylene group, and the like; and D can be a chemical group comprising at least one of nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur, examples of which can include, but are not limited to, —N(CH₃)₂, —P(CH₃)₂, —N(CH₂CH₃)₂, —P(CH₂CH₃)₂, —N(Ph)₂, —P(Ph)₂, —OCH₃, —SCH₃, —OCH₂CH₃, —SCH₂CH₃, —OPh, —SPh, and the like.

Illustrative and non-limiting examples of N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compounds having formula (IIa) and formula (IIb) can include, but are not limited to, compounds TM-A, TM-B, TM-C, and TM-D illustrated in FIG. 2.

Representative procedures for synthesizing compounds having formula (IIa) and formula (IIb) can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,333,423 and 6,596,827, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Using analogous synthesis schemes, transition metal complexes similar to TM-A, TM-B, TM-C, and TM-D, but with monoanionic ligands other than benzyl (e.g., halide, hydrocarbylaminyl, hydrocarbylsilyl, other hydrocarbyl, etc.), and/or with substituents other than tert-butyl (e.g., halide, hydrocarboxy, hydrocarbylsilyl, other hydrocarbyl, etc.), and/or with different L and D groups, can be derived.

In another embodiment of this invention, the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound can have the formula:

Within formula (IIIa), M, X¹, X², R^(B), R^(C), p, q, and R^(E) are independent elements of the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound. Accordingly, the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound having formula (IIIa) can be described using any combination of M, X¹, X², R^(B), R^(C), p, q, and R^(E) disclosed herein.

The selections for M, X¹, X², R^(B), R^(C), p, and q in formula (IIIa) are the same as those described herein above for formula (Ia). For instance, M can be Ti, Zr, or Hf; alternatively, M can be Ti; alternatively, M can be Zr; or alternatively, M can be Hf. X¹ and X² in formula (IIIa) independently can be any monoanionic ligand disclosed herein, and this includes, but is not limited to, H, BH₄, a halide, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylaminyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group, —OBR¹ ₂, or —OSO₂R¹, wherein R¹ is a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group. In some aspects, it is contemplated that X¹ and X² independently can be a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarboxy group, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylaminyl group, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylsilyl group, or a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group, while in other aspects, X¹ and X² independently can be a halide or a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group. In formula (IIIa), each R^(B) and/or R^(C) independently can be any halide, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group disclosed herein. For example, each R^(B) and/or R^(C) independently can be Cl, CF₃, a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group (e.g., t-Bu), a pentyl group, a hexyl group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, a nonyl group, a decyl group, an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, a hexenyl group, a heptenyl group, an octenyl group, a nonenyl group, a decenyl group, a phenyl group, a tolyl group, a benzyl group, a naphthyl group, a trimethylsilyl group, a triisopropylsilyl group, a triphenylsilyl group, or an allyldimethylsilyl group. The integers, p and q, independently can be 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4, such as, for instance, p can be 0, 1, or 2, and q can be 0, 1, or 2.

R^(E) in formula (IIIa) can be any alkenyl group disclosed herein, for instance, any C₂ to C₃₆ alkenyl group, any C₂ to C₁₈ alkenyl group, any C₃ to C₁₂ alkenyl group, any C₃ to C₈ alkenyl group, or any C₃ to C₆ alkenyl group disclosed herein. Accordingly, in one aspect, the alkenyl group which can be R^(E) in formula (IIIa) can be an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, a hexenyl group, a heptenyl group, an octenyl group, a nonenyl group, a decenyl group, a undecenyl group, a dodecenyl group, a tridecenyl group, a tetradecenyl group, a pentadecenyl group, a hexadecenyl group, a heptadecenyl group, or an octadecenyl group. In another aspect, R^(E) in formula (IIIa) can be an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, a hexenyl group, a heptenyl group, an octenyl group, a nonenyl group, or a decenyl group, while in yet another aspect, R^(E) in formula (IIIa) can be an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, or a hexenyl group. For example, R^(E) can be an ethenyl group; alternatively, a propenyl group; alternatively, a butenyl group; alternatively, a pentenyl group; or alternatively, a hexenyl group. In still another aspect, R^(E) can be a terminal alkenyl group, such as a C₃ to C₁₈ terminal alkenyl group, a C₃ to C₁₂ terminal alkenyl group, or a C₃ to C₈ terminal alkenyl group.

In another embodiment of this invention, the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound can have the formula:

Within formula (IIIb), M, X¹, X², R^(E), R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) are independent elements of the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound. Accordingly, the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound having formula (IIIb) can be described using any combination of M, X¹, X², R^(E), R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) disclosed herein.

The selections for M, X¹, X², and R^(E) in formula (IIIb) are the same as those described herein above for formula (IIIa), while the selections for R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) are the same as those described herein above for formula (Ib). For example, M in formula (IIIb) can be Ti, Zr, or Hf; X¹ and X² independently can be any monoanionic ligand disclosed herein; and R^(E) can be any alkenyl group disclosed herein (e.g., a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, a hexenyl group, a heptenyl group, an octenyl group, etc.). In these and other aspects, R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) in formula (IIIb) independently can be any halide, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group disclosed herein, examples of which can include, but are not limited to, Cl, CF₃, a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group (e.g., t-Bu), a pentyl group, a hexyl group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, a nonyl group, a decyl group, an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, a hexenyl group, a heptenyl group, an octenyl group, a nonenyl group, a decenyl group, a phenyl group, a tolyl group, a benzyl group, a naphthyl group, a trimethylsilyl group, a triisopropylsilyl group, a triphenylsilyl group, or an allyldimethylsilyl group, and the like.

Illustrative and non-limiting examples of N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compounds having formula (IIIa) and formula (IIIb) can include, but are not limited to, compounds TM-1 and TM-2 illustrated in FIG. 1.

Methods of making transition metal complexes having formula (IIIa) and formula (IIIb) also are provided herein. Examples 1-8 that follow provide representative procedures for synthesizing compounds having formula (IIIa) and formula (IIIb), or for synthesizing precursor compounds useful in the subsequent synthesis of compounds having formula (IIIa) and formula (IIIb) Using analogous synthesis schemes to those provided herein, transition metal complexes similar to TM-1 and TM-2, but with monoanionic ligands other than benzyl (e.g., halide, hydrocarbylaminyl, hydrocarbylsilyl, other hydrocarbyl, etc.), and/or with substituents other than tert-butyl (e.g., halide, hydrocarboxy, hydrocarbylsilyl, other hydrocarbyl, etc.), and/or with a different alkenyl group, can be derived.

Activator-Supports

The present invention encompasses various catalyst compositions containing an activator-support. In one embodiment, the activator-support can comprise a chemically-treated solid oxide. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the activator-support can comprise a clay mineral, a pillared clay, an exfoliated clay, an exfoliated clay gelled into another oxide matrix, a layered silicate mineral, a non-layered silicate mineral, a layered aluminosilicate mineral, a non-layered aluminosilicate mineral, or combinations thereof.

Generally, chemically-treated solid oxides exhibit enhanced acidity as compared to the corresponding untreated solid oxide compound. The chemically-treated solid oxide also can function as a catalyst activator as compared to the corresponding untreated solid oxide. While the chemically-treated solid oxide can activate a transition metal complex in the absence of co-catalysts, it is not necessary to eliminate co-catalysts from the catalyst composition. The activation function of the activator-support can enhance the activity of catalyst composition as a whole, as compared to a catalyst composition containing the corresponding untreated solid oxide. However, it is believed that the chemically-treated solid oxide can function as an activator, even in the absence of organoaluminum compounds, aluminoxanes, organoboron or organoborate compounds, ionizing ionic compounds, and the like.

The chemically-treated solid oxide can comprise a solid oxide treated with an electron-withdrawing anion. While not intending to be bound by the following statement, it is believed that treatment of the solid oxide with an electron-withdrawing component augments or enhances the acidity of the oxide. Thus, either the activator-support exhibits Lewis or Brønsted acidity that is typically greater than the Lewis or Brønsted acid strength of the untreated solid oxide, or the activator-support has a greater number of acid sites than the untreated solid oxide, or both. One method to quantify the acidity of the chemically-treated and untreated solid oxide materials can be by comparing the polymerization activities of the treated and untreated oxides under acid catalyzed reactions.

Chemically-treated solid oxides of this invention generally can be formed from an inorganic solid oxide that exhibits Lewis acidic or Brønsted acidic behavior and has a relatively high porosity. The solid oxide can be chemically-treated with an electron-withdrawing component, typically an electron-withdrawing anion, to form an activator-support.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the solid oxide used to prepare the chemically-treated solid oxide can have a pore volume greater than about 0.1 cc/g. According to another aspect of the present invention, the solid oxide can have a pore volume greater than about 0.5 cc/g. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the solid oxide can have a pore volume greater than about 1.0 cc/g.

In another aspect, the solid oxide can have a surface area of from about 100 to about 1000 m²/g. In yet another aspect, the solid oxide can have a surface area of from about 200 to about 800 m²/g. In still another aspect of the present invention, the solid oxide can have a surface area of from about 250 to about 600 m²/g.

The chemically-treated solid oxide can comprise a solid inorganic oxide comprising oxygen and one or more elements selected from Group 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15 of the periodic table, or comprising oxygen and one or more elements selected from the lanthanide or actinide elements (See: Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary, 11^(th) Ed., John Wiley & Sons, 1995; Cotton, F. A., Wilkinson, G., Murillo, C. A., and Bochmann, M., Advanced Inorganic Chemistry, 6^(th) Ed., Wiley-Interscience, 1999). For example, the inorganic oxide can comprise oxygen and an element, or elements, selected from Al, B, Be, Bi, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ga, La, Mn, Mo, Ni, Sb, Si, Sn, Sr, Th, Ti, V, W, P, Y, Zn, and Zr.

Suitable examples of solid oxide materials or compounds that can be used to form the chemically-treated solid oxide can include, but are not limited to, Al₂O₃, B₂O₃, BeO, Bi₂O₃, CdO, CO₃O₄, Cr₂O₃, CuO, Fe₂O₃, Ga₂O₃, La₂O₃, Mn₂O₃, MoO₃, NiO, P₂O₅, Sb₂O₅, SiO₂, SnO₂, SrO, ThO₂, TiO₂, V₂O₅, WO₃, Y₂O₃, ZnO, ZrO₂, and the like, including mixed oxides thereof, and combinations thereof. For example, the solid oxide can comprise silica, alumina, silica-alumina, silica-coated alumina, aluminum phosphate, aluminophosphate, heteropolytungstate, titania, zirconia, magnesia, boria, zinc oxide, mixed oxides thereof, or any combination thereof.

The solid oxide of this invention encompasses oxide materials such as alumina, “mixed oxide” compounds thereof such as silica-alumina, and combinations and mixtures thereof. The mixed oxide compounds such as silica-alumina can be single or multiple chemical phases with more than one metal combined with oxygen to form a solid oxide compound. Examples of mixed oxides that can be used in the activator-support of the present invention, either singly or in combination, can include, but are not limited to, silica-alumina, silica-titania, silica-zirconia, zeolites, various clay minerals, alumina-titania, alumina-zirconia, zinc-aluminate, alumina-boria, silica-boria, aluminophosphate-silica, titania-zirconia, and the like. The solid oxide of this invention also encompasses oxide materials such as silica-coated alumina, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,884,163, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The electron-withdrawing component used to treat the solid oxide can be any component that increases the Lewis or Brønsted acidity of the solid oxide upon treatment (as compared to the solid oxide that is not treated with at least one electron-withdrawing anion). According to one aspect of the present invention, the electron-withdrawing component can be an electron-withdrawing anion derived from a salt, an acid, or other compound, such as a volatile organic compound, that serves as a source or precursor for that anion. Examples of electron-withdrawing anions can include, but are not limited to, sulfate, bisulfate, fluoride, chloride, bromide, iodide, fluorosulfate, fluoroborate, phosphate, fluorophosphate, trifluoroacetate, triflate, fluorozirconate, fluorotitanate, phospho-tungstate, and the like, including mixtures and combinations thereof. In addition, other ionic or non-ionic compounds that serve as sources for these electron-withdrawing anions also can be employed in the present invention. It is contemplated that the electron-withdrawing anion can be, or can comprise, fluoride, chloride, bromide, phosphate, triflate, bisulfate, or sulfate, and the like, or any combination thereof, in some aspects of this invention. In other aspects, the electron-withdrawing anion can comprise sulfate, bisulfate, fluoride, chloride, bromide, iodide, fluorosulfate, fluoroborate, phosphate, fluorophosphate, trifluoroacetate, triflate, fluorozirconate, fluorotitanate, and the like, or combinations thereof.

Thus, for example, the activator-support (e.g., chemically-treated solid oxide) used in the catalyst compositions of the present invention can be, or can comprise, fluorided alumina, chlorided alumina, bromided alumina, sulfated alumina, fluorided silica-alumina, chlorided silica-alumina, bromided silica-alumina, sulfated silica-alumina, fluorided silica-zirconia, chlorided silica-zirconia, bromided silica-zirconia, sulfated silica-zirconia, fluorided silica-Mania, fluorided silica-coated alumina, sulfated silica-coated alumina, phosphated silica-coated alumina, and the like, or combinations thereof. In one aspect, the activator-support can be, or can comprise, fluorided alumina, sulfated alumina, fluorided silica-alumina, sulfated silica-alumina, fluorided silica-coated alumina, sulfated silica-coated alumina, phosphated silica-coated alumina, and the like, or any combination thereof. In another aspect, the activator-support can comprise fluorided alumina; alternatively, chlorided alumina; alternatively, sulfated alumina; alternatively, fluorided silica-alumina; alternatively, sulfated silica-alumina; alternatively, fluorided silica-zirconia; alternatively, chlorided silica-zirconia; or alternatively, fluorided silica-coated alumina.

When the electron-withdrawing component comprises a salt of an electron-withdrawing anion, the counterion or cation of that salt can be selected from any cation that allows the salt to revert or decompose back to the acid during calcining. Factors that dictate the suitability of the particular salt to serve as a source for the electron-withdrawing anion can include, but are not limited to, the solubility of the salt in the desired solvent, the lack of adverse reactivity of the cation, ion-pairing effects between the cation and anion, hygroscopic properties imparted to the salt by the cation, and the like, and thermal stability of the anion. Examples of suitable cations in the salt of the electron-withdrawing anion can include, but are not limited to, ammonium, trialkyl ammonium, tetraalkyl ammonium, tetraalkyl phosphonium, H⁺, [H(OEt₂)₂]⁺, and the like.

Further, combinations of one or more different electron-withdrawing anions, in varying proportions, can be used to tailor the specific acidity of the activator-support to the desired level. Combinations of electron-withdrawing components can be contacted with the oxide material simultaneously or individually, and in any order that affords the desired chemically-treated solid oxide acidity. For example, one aspect of this invention can employ two or more electron-withdrawing anion source compounds in two or more separate contacting steps.

Thus, a process by which a chemically-treated solid oxide can be prepared is as follows: a selected solid oxide, or combination of solid oxides, can be contacted with a first electron-withdrawing anion source compound to form a first mixture; this first mixture can be calcined and then contacted with a second electron-withdrawing anion source compound to form a second mixture; the second mixture then can be calcined to form a treated solid oxide. In such a process, the first and second electron-withdrawing anion source compounds can be either the same or different compounds.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the chemically-treated solid oxide can comprise a solid inorganic oxide material, a mixed oxide material, or a combination of inorganic oxide materials, that is chemically-treated with an electron-withdrawing component, and optionally treated with a metal source, including metal salts, metal ions, or other metal-containing compounds. Non-limiting examples of the metal or metal ion can include zinc, nickel, vanadium, titanium, silver, copper, gallium, tin, tungsten, molybdenum, zirconium, and the like, or combinations thereof. Examples of chemically-treated solid oxides that contain a metal or metal ion can include, but are not limited to, chlorided zinc-impregnated alumina, fluorided titanium-impregnated alumina, fluorided zinc-impregnated alumina, chlorided zinc-impregnated silica-alumina, fluorided zinc-impregnated silica-alumina, sulfated zinc-impregnated alumina, chlorided zinc aluminate, fluorided zinc aluminate, sulfated zinc aluminate, silica-coated alumina treated with hexafluorotitanic acid, silica-coated alumina treated with zinc and then fluorided, and the like, or any combination thereof.

Any method of impregnating the solid oxide material with a metal can be used. The method by which the oxide is contacted with a metal source, typically a salt or metal-containing compound, can include, but is not limited to, gelling, co-gelling, impregnation of one compound onto another, and the like. If desired, the metal-containing compound can be added to or impregnated into the solid oxide in solution form, and subsequently converted into the supported metal upon calcining. Accordingly, the solid inorganic oxide can further comprise a metal selected from zinc, titanium, nickel, vanadium, silver, copper, gallium, tin, tungsten, molybdenum, and the like, or combinations of these metals. For example, zinc often can be used to impregnate the solid oxide because it can provide improved catalyst activity at a low cost.

The solid oxide can be treated with metal salts or metal-containing compounds before, after, or at the same time that the solid oxide is treated with the electron-withdrawing anion. Following any contacting method, the contacted mixture of solid compound, electron-withdrawing anion, and the metal ion can be calcined. Alternatively, a solid oxide material, an electron-withdrawing anion source, and the metal salt or metal-containing compound can be contacted and calcined simultaneously.

Various processes can be used to form the chemically-treated solid oxide useful in the present invention. The chemically-treated solid oxide can comprise the contact product of one or more solid oxides with one or more electron-withdrawing anion sources. It is not required that the solid oxide be calcined prior to contacting the electron-withdrawing anion source. Typically, the contact product can be calcined either during or after the solid oxide is contacted with the electron-withdrawing anion source. The solid oxide can be calcined or uncalcined. Various processes to prepare solid oxide activator-supports that can be employed in this invention have been reported. For example, such methods are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,107,230, 6,165,929, 6,294,494, 6,300,271, 6,316,553, 6,355,594, 6,376,415, 6,388,017, 6,391,816, 6,395,666, 6,524,987, 6,548,441, 6,548,442, 6,576,583, 6,613,712, 6,632,894, 6,667,274, and 6,750,302, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the solid oxide material can be chemically-treated by contacting it with an electron-withdrawing component, typically an electron-withdrawing anion source. Further, the solid oxide material optionally can be chemically treated with a metal ion, and then calcined to form a metal-containing or metal-impregnated chemically-treated solid oxide. According to another aspect of the present invention, the solid oxide material and electron-withdrawing anion source can be contacted and calcined simultaneously.

The method by which the oxide is contacted with the electron-withdrawing component, typically a salt or an acid of an electron-withdrawing anion, can include, but is not limited to, gelling, co-gelling, impregnation of one compound onto another, and the like. Thus, following any contacting method, the contacted mixture of the solid oxide, electron-withdrawing anion, and optional metal ion, can be calcined.

The solid oxide activator-support (i.e., chemically-treated solid oxide) thus can be produced by a process comprising:

1) contacting a solid oxide (or solid oxides) with an electron-withdrawing anion source compound (or compounds) to form a first mixture; and

2) calcining the first mixture to form the solid oxide activator-support.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the solid oxide activator-support (chemically-treated solid oxide) can be produced by a process comprising:

1) contacting a solid oxide (or solid oxides) with a first electron-withdrawing anion source compound to form a first mixture;

2) calcining the first mixture to produce a calcined first mixture;

3) contacting the calcined first mixture with a second electron-withdrawing anion source compound to form a second mixture; and

4) calcining the second mixture to form the solid oxide activator-support.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the chemically-treated solid oxide can be produced or formed by contacting the solid oxide with the electron-withdrawing anion source compound, where the solid oxide compound is calcined before, during, or after contacting the electron-withdrawing anion source, and where there is a substantial absence of aluminoxanes, organoboron or organoborate compounds, and ionizing ionic compounds.

Calcining of the treated solid oxide generally can be conducted in an ambient atmosphere, typically in a dry ambient atmosphere, at a temperature from about 200° C. to about 900° C., and for a time of about 1 minute to about 100 hours. Calcining can be conducted at a temperature of from about 300° C. to about 800° C., or alternatively, at a temperature of from about 400° C. to about 700° C. Calcining can be conducted for about 30 minutes to about 50 hours, or for about 1 hour to about 15 hours. Thus, for example, calcining can be carried out for about 1 to about 10 hours at a temperature of from about 350° C. to about 550° C. Any suitable ambient atmosphere can be employed during calcining. Generally, calcining can be conducted in an oxidizing atmosphere, such as air. Alternatively, an inert atmosphere, such as nitrogen or argon, or a reducing atmosphere, such as hydrogen or carbon monoxide, can be used.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the solid oxide material can be treated with a source of halide ion, sulfate ion, or a combination of anions, optionally treated with a metal ion, and then calcined to provide the chemically-treated solid oxide in the form of a particulate solid. For example, the solid oxide material can be treated with a source of sulfate (termed a “sulfating agent”), a source of bromide ion (termed a “bromiding agent”), a source of chloride ion (termed a “chloriding agent”), a source of fluoride ion (termed a “fluoriding agent”), or a combination thereof, and calcined to provide the solid oxide activator. Useful acidic activator-supports can include, but are not limited to, bromided alumina, chlorided alumina, fluorided alumina, sulfated alumina, bromided silica-alumina, chlorided silica-alumina, fluorided silica-alumina, sulfated silica-alumina, bromided silica-zirconia, chlorided silica-zirconia, fluorided silica-zirconia, sulfated silica-zirconia, fluorided silica-titania, alumina treated with hexafluorotitanic acid, silica-coated alumina treated with hexafluorotitanic acid, silica-alumina treated with hexafluorozirconic acid, silica-alumina treated with trifluoroacetic acid, fluorided boria-alumina, silica treated with tetrafluoroboric acid, alumina treated with tetrafluoroboric acid, alumina treated with hexafluorophosphoric acid, a pillared clay, such as a pillared montmorillonite, optionally treated with fluoride, chloride, or sulfate; phosphated alumina or other aluminophosphates optionally treated with sulfate, fluoride, or chloride; or any combination of the above. Further, any of these activator-supports optionally can be treated or impregnated with a metal ion.

The chemically-treated solid oxide can comprise a fluorided solid oxide in the form of a particulate solid. The fluorided solid oxide can be formed by contacting a solid oxide with a fluoriding agent. The fluoride ion can be added to the oxide by forming a slurry of the oxide in a suitable solvent such as alcohol or water including, but not limited to, the one to three carbon alcohols because of their volatility and low surface tension. Examples of suitable fluoriding agents can include, but are not limited to, hydrofluoric acid (HF), ammonium fluoride (NH₄F), ammonium bifluoride (NH₄HF₂), ammonium tetrafluoroborate (NH₄BF₄), ammonium silicofluoride (hexafluorosilicate) ((NH₄)₂SiF₆), ammonium hexafluorophosphate (NH₄PF₆), hexafluorotitanic acid (H₂TiF₆), ammonium hexafluorotitanic acid ((NH₄)₂TiF₆), hexafluorozirconic acid (H₂ZrF₆), AlF₃, NH₄AlF₄, analogs thereof, and combinations thereof. Triflic acid and ammonium triflate also can be employed. For example, ammonium bifluoride (NH₄HF₂) can be used as the fluoriding agent, due to its ease of use and availability.

If desired, the solid oxide can be treated with a fluoriding agent during the calcining step. Any fluoriding agent capable of thoroughly contacting the solid oxide during the calcining step can be used. For example, in addition to those fluoriding agents described previously, volatile organic fluoriding agents can be used. Examples of volatile organic fluoriding agents useful in this aspect of the invention can include, but are not limited to, freons, perfluorohexane, perfluorobenzene, fluoromethane, trifluoroethanol, and the like, and combinations thereof. Calcining temperatures generally must be high enough to decompose the compound and release fluoride. Gaseous hydrogen fluoride (HF) or fluorine (F₂) itself also can be used with the solid oxide if fluorided while calcining Silicon tetrafluoride (SiF₄) and compounds containing tetrafluoroborate (BF₄ ⁻) also can be employed. One convenient method of contacting the solid oxide with the fluoriding agent can be to vaporize a fluoriding agent into a gas stream used to fluidize the solid oxide during calcination.

Similarly, in another aspect of this invention, the chemically-treated solid oxide can comprise a chlorided solid oxide in the form of a particulate solid. The chlorided solid oxide can be formed by contacting a solid oxide with a chloriding agent. The chloride ion can be added to the oxide by forming a slurry of the oxide in a suitable solvent. The solid oxide can be treated with a chloriding agent during the calcining step. Any chloriding agent capable of serving as a source of chloride and thoroughly contacting the oxide during the calcining step can be used, such as SiCl₄, SiMe₂Cl₂, TiCl₄, BCl₃, and the like, including mixtures thereof. Volatile organic chloriding agents can be used. Examples of suitable volatile organic chloriding agents can include, but are not limited to, certain freons, perchlorobenzene, chloromethane, dichloromethane, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, trichloroethanol, and the like, or any combination thereof. Gaseous hydrogen chloride or chlorine itself also can be used with the solid oxide during calcining. One convenient method of contacting the oxide with the chloriding agent can be to vaporize a chloriding agent into a gas stream used to fluidize the solid oxide during calcination.

The amount of fluoride or chloride ion present before calcining the solid oxide generally can be from about 1 to about 50% by weight, where the weight percent is based on the weight of the solid oxide, for example, silica-alumina, before calcining. According to another aspect of this invention, the amount of fluoride or chloride ion present before calcining the solid oxide can be from about 1 to about 25% by weight, and according to another aspect of this invention, from about 2 to about 20% by weight. According to yet another aspect of this invention, the amount of fluoride or chloride ion present before calcining the solid oxide can be from about 4 to about 10% by weight. Once impregnated with halide, the halided oxide can be dried by any suitable method including, but not limited to, suction filtration followed by evaporation, drying under vacuum, spray drying, and the like, although it is also possible to initiate the calcining step immediately without drying the impregnated solid oxide.

The silica-alumina used to prepare the treated silica-alumina typically can have a pore volume greater than about 0.5 cc/g. According to one aspect of the present invention, the pore volume can be greater than about 0.8 cc/g, and according to another aspect of the present invention, greater than about 1.0 cc/g. Further, the silica-alumina generally can have a surface area greater than about 100 m²/g. According to another aspect of this invention, the surface area can be greater than about 250 m²/g. Yet, in another aspect, the surface area can be greater than about 350 m²/g.

The silica-alumina utilized in the present invention typically can have an alumina content from about 5 to about 95% by weight. According to one aspect of this invention, the alumina content of the silica-alumina can be from about 5 to about 50%, or from about 8% to about 30%, alumina by weight. In another aspect, high alumina content silica-alumina compounds can be employed, in which the alumina content of these silica-alumina compounds typically ranges from about 60% to about 90%, or from about 65% to about 80%, alumina by weight. According to yet another aspect of this invention, the solid oxide component can comprise alumina without silica, and according to another aspect of this invention, the solid oxide component can comprise silica without alumina.

The sulfated solid oxide can comprise sulfate and a solid oxide component, such as alumina or silica-alumina, in the form of a particulate solid. Optionally, the sulfated oxide can be treated further with a metal ion such that the calcined sulfated oxide comprises a metal. According to one aspect of the present invention, the sulfated solid oxide can comprise sulfate and alumina. In some instances, the sulfated alumina can be formed by a process wherein the alumina is treated with a sulfate source, for example, sulfuric acid or a sulfate salt such as ammonium sulfate. This process generally can be performed by forming a slurry of the alumina in a suitable solvent, such as alcohol or water, in which the desired concentration of the sulfating agent has been added. Suitable organic solvents can include, but are not limited to, the one to three carbon alcohols because of their volatility and low surface tension.

According to one aspect of this invention, the amount of sulfate ion present before calcining can be from about 0.5 to about 100 parts by weight sulfate ion to about 100 parts by weight solid oxide. According to another aspect of this invention, the amount of sulfate ion present before calcining can be from about 1 to about 50 parts by weight sulfate ion to about 100 parts by weight solid oxide, and according to still another aspect of this invention, from about 5 to about 30 parts by weight sulfate ion to about 100 parts by weight solid oxide. These weight ratios are based on the weight of the solid oxide before calcining. Once impregnated with sulfate, the sulfated oxide can be dried by any suitable method including, but not limited to, suction filtration followed by evaporation, drying under vacuum, spray drying, and the like, although it is also possible to initiate the calcining step immediately.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the activator-support used in preparing the catalyst compositions of this invention can comprise an ion-exchangeable activator-support including, but not limited to, silicate and aluminosilicate compounds or minerals, either with layered or non-layered structures, and combinations thereof. In another aspect of this invention, ion-exchangeable, layered aluminosilicates such as pillared clays can be used as activator-supports. When the acidic activator-support comprises an ion-exchangeable activator-support, it can optionally be treated with at least one electron-withdrawing anion such as those disclosed herein, though typically the ion-exchangeable activator-support is not treated with an electron-withdrawing anion.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the activator-support of this invention can comprise clay minerals having exchangeable cations and layers capable of expanding. Typical clay mineral activator-supports can include, but are not limited to, ion-exchangeable, layered aluminosilicates such as pillared clays. Although the term “support” is used, it is not meant to be construed as an inert component of the catalyst composition, but rather can be considered an active part of the catalyst composition, because of its intimate association with the transition metal complex component.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the clay materials of this invention can encompass materials either in their natural state or that have been treated with various ions by wetting, ion exchange, or pillaring. Typically, the clay material activator-support of this invention can comprise clays that have been ion exchanged with large cations, including polynuclear, highly charged metal complex cations. However, the clay material activator-supports of this invention also can encompass clays that have been ion exchanged with simple salts, including, but not limited to, salts of Al(III), Fe(II), Fe(III), and Zn(II) with ligands such as halide, acetate, sulfate, nitrate, or nitrite.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the activator-support can comprise a pillared clay. The term “pillared clay” is used to refer to clay materials that have been ion exchanged with large, typically polynuclear, highly charged metal complex cations. Examples of such ions can include, but are not limited to, Keggin ions which can have charges such as 7+, various polyoxometallates, and other large ions. Thus, the term pillaring can refer to a simple exchange reaction in which the exchangeable cations of a clay material are replaced with large, highly charged ions, such as Keggin ions. These polymeric cations then can be immobilized within the interlayers of the clay and when calcined are converted to metal oxide “pillars,” effectively supporting the clay layers as column-like structures. Thus, once the clay is dried and calcined to produce the supporting pillars between clay layers, the expanded lattice structure can be maintained and the porosity can be enhanced. The resulting pores can vary in shape and size as a function of the pillaring material and the parent clay material used. Examples of pillaring and pillared clays are found in: T. J. Pinnavaia, Science 220 (4595), 365-371 (1983); J. M. Thomas, Intercalation Chemistry, (S. Whittington and A. Jacobson, eds.) Ch. 3, pp. 55-99, Academic Press, Inc., (1972); U.S. Pat. No. 4,452,910; U.S. Pat. No. 5,376,611; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,060,480; the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

The pillaring process can utilize clay minerals having exchangeable cations and layers capable of expanding. Any pillared clay that can enhance the polymerization of olefins in the catalyst composition of the present invention can be used. Therefore, suitable clay minerals for pillaring can include, but are not limited to, allophanes; smectites, both dioctahedral (Al) and tri-octahedral (Mg) and derivatives thereof such as montmorillonites (bentonites), nontronites, hectorites, or laponites; halloysites; vermiculites; micas; fluoromicas; chlorites; mixed-layer clays; the fibrous clays including but not limited to sepiolites, attapulgites, and palygorskites; a serpentine clay; illite; laponite; saponite; and any combination thereof. In one aspect, the pillared clay activator-support can comprise bentonite or montmorillonite. The principal component of bentonite is montmorillonite.

The pillared clay can be pretreated if desired. For example, a pillared bentonite can be pretreated by drying at about 300° C. under an inert atmosphere, typically dry nitrogen, for about 3 hours, before being added to the polymerization reactor. Although an exemplary pretreatment is described herein, it should be understood that the preheating can be carried out at many other temperatures and times, including any combination of temperature and time steps, all of which are encompassed by this invention.

The activator-support used to prepare the catalyst compositions of the present invention can be combined with other inorganic support materials, including, but not limited to, zeolites, inorganic oxides, phosphated inorganic oxides, and the like. In one aspect, typical support materials that can be used include, but are not limited to, silica, silica-alumina, alumina, Mania, zirconia, magnesia, boria, thoria, aluminophosphate, aluminum phosphate, silica-titania, coprecipitated silica/titania, mixtures thereof, or any combination thereof.

According to another aspect of the present invention, one or more of the transition metal complexes can be precontacted with an olefin monomer and an organoaluminum compound for a first period of time prior to contacting this mixture with the activator-support. Once the precontacted mixture of the transition metal complex(es), olefin monomer, and organoaluminum compound is contacted with the activator-support, the composition further comprising the activator-support can be termed a “postcontacted” mixture. The postcontacted mixture can be allowed to remain in further contact for a second period of time prior to being charged into the reactor in which the polymerization process will be carried out.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, one or more of the transition metal complexes can be precontacted with an olefin monomer and an activator-support for a first period of time prior to contacting this mixture with the organoaluminum compound. Once the precontacted mixture of the transition metal complex(es), olefin monomer, and activator-support is contacted with the organoaluminum compound, the composition further comprising the organoaluminum can be termed a “postcontacted” mixture. The postcontacted mixture can be allowed to remain in further contact for a second period of time prior to being introduced into the polymerization reactor.

Co-Catalysts

In certain embodiments directed to catalyst compositions containing a co-catalyst, the co-catalyst can comprise a metal hydrocarbyl compound, examples of which include non-halide metal hydrocarbyl compounds, metal hydrocarbyl halide compounds, non-halide metal alkyl compounds, metal alkyl halide compounds, and so forth. The hydrocarbyl group (or alkyl group) can be any hydrocarbyl (or alkyl) group disclosed herein. Moreover, in some aspects, the metal of the metal hydrocarbyl can be a group 1, 2, 11, 12, 13, or 14 metal; alternatively, a group 13 or 14 metal; or alternatively, a group 13 metal. Hence, in some aspects, the metal of the metal hydrocarbyl (non-halide metal hydrocarbyl or metal hydrocarbyl halide) can be lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, cesium, beryllium, magnesium, calcium, strontium, barium, zinc, cadmium, boron, aluminum, or tin; alternatively, lithium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, zinc, boron, aluminum, or tin; alternatively, lithium, sodium, or potassium; alternatively, magnesium or calcium; alternatively, lithium; alternatively, sodium; alternatively, potassium; alternatively, magnesium; alternatively, calcium; alternatively, zinc; alternatively, boron; alternatively, aluminum; or alternatively, tin. In some aspects, the metal hydrocarbyl or metal alkyl, with or without a halide, can comprise a lithium hydrocarbyl or alkyl, a magnesium hydrocarbyl or alkyl, a boron hydrocarbyl or alkyl, a zinc hydrocarbyl or alkyl, or an aluminum hydrocarbyl or alkyl.

In particular embodiments directed to catalyst compositions containing a co-catalyst, the co-catalyst can comprise an aluminoxane compound, an organoboron or organoborate compound, an ionizing ionic compound, an organoaluminum compound, an organozinc compound, an organomagnesium compound, or an organolithium compound, and this includes any combinations of these materials. In one aspect, the co-catalyst can comprise an organoaluminum compound. In another aspect, the co-catalyst can comprise an aluminoxane compound, an organoboron or organoborate compound, an ionizing ionic compound, an organozinc compound, an organomagnesium compound, an organolithium compound, or any combination thereof. In yet another aspect, the co-catalyst can comprise an aluminoxane compound; alternatively, an organoboron or organoborate compound; alternatively, an ionizing ionic compound; alternatively, an organozinc compound; alternatively, an organomagnesium compound; or alternatively, an organolithium compound.

Organoaluminum Compounds

In some embodiments, catalyst compositions of the present invention can comprise one or more organoaluminum compounds. Such compounds can include, but are not limited to, compounds having the formula: (R^(X))₃Al; where each R^(X) independently can be an aliphatic group having from 1 to 10 carbon atoms. For example, each R^(X) independently can be methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, hexyl, or isobutyl.

Other organoaluminum compounds which can be used in catalyst compositions disclosed herein can include, but are not limited to, compounds having the formula: Al(X⁵)_(m)(X⁶)_(3-m), where each X⁵ independently can be a hydrocarbyl; each X⁶ independently can be an alkoxide or an aryloxide, a halide, or a hydride; and m can be from 1 to 3, inclusive. Hydrocarbyl is used herein to specify a hydrocarbon radical group and includes, for instance, aryl, alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkenyl, cycloalkadienyl, alkynyl, aralkyl, aralkenyl, and aralkynyl groups.

In one aspect, each X⁵ independently can be a hydrocarbyl having from 1 to about 18 carbon atoms. In another aspect of the present invention, each X⁵ independently can be an alkyl having from 1 to 10 carbon atoms. For example, each X⁵ independently can be methyl, ethyl, propyl, n-butyl, sec-butyl, isobutyl, or hexyl, and the like, in yet another aspect of the present invention.

According to one aspect of the present invention, each X⁶ independently can be an alkoxide or an aryloxide, any one of which has from 1 to 18 carbon atoms, a halide, or a hydride. In another aspect of the present invention, each X⁶ can be selected independently from fluorine and chlorine. Yet, in another aspect, X⁶ can be chlorine.

In the formula, Al(X⁵)_(m)(X⁶)_(3-m), m can be a number from 1 to 3, inclusive, and typically, m can be 3. The value of m is not restricted to be an integer; therefore, this formula can include sesquihalide compounds or other organoaluminum cluster compounds.

Examples of organoaluminum compounds suitable for use in accordance with the present invention can include, but are not limited to, trialkylaluminum compounds, dialkylaluminum halide compounds, dialkylaluminum alkoxide compounds, dialkylaluminum hydride compounds, and combinations thereof. Specific non-limiting examples of suitable organoaluminum compounds can include trimethylaluminum (TMA), triethylaluminum (TEA), tri-n-propylaluminum (TNPA), tri-n-butylaluminum (TNBA), triisobutylaluminum (TIBA), tri-n-hexylaluminum, tri-n-octylaluminum, diisobutylaluminum hydride, diethylaluminum ethoxide, diethylaluminum chloride, and the like, or combinations thereof.

The present invention contemplates a method of precontacting a transition metal complex with an organoaluminum compound and an olefin monomer to form a precontacted mixture, prior to contacting this precontacted mixture with an activator-support to form a catalyst composition. When the catalyst composition is prepared in this manner, typically, though not necessarily, a portion of the organoaluminum compound can be added to the precontacted mixture and another portion of the organoaluminum compound can be added to the postcontacted mixture prepared when the precontacted mixture is contacted with the solid oxide activator-support. However, the entire organoaluminum compound can be used to prepare the catalyst composition in either the precontacting or postcontacting step. Alternatively, all the catalyst components can be contacted in a single step.

Further, more than one organoaluminum compound can be used in either the precontacting or the postcontacting step. When an organoaluminum compound is added in multiple steps, the amounts of organoaluminum compound disclosed herein include the total amount of organoaluminum compound used in both the precontacted and postcontacted mixtures, and any additional organoaluminum compound added to the polymerization reactor. Therefore, total amounts of organoaluminum compounds are disclosed regardless of whether a single organoaluminum compound or more than one organoaluminum compound is used.

Aluminoxane Compounds

Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a catalyst composition which can comprise an aluminoxane compound. As used herein, the term “aluminoxane” refers to aluminoxane compounds, compositions, mixtures, or discrete species, regardless of how such aluminoxanes are prepared, formed or otherwise provided. For example, a catalyst composition comprising an aluminoxane compound can be prepared in which aluminoxane is provided as the poly(hydrocarbyl aluminum oxide), or in which aluminoxane is provided as the combination of an aluminum alkyl compound and a source of active protons such as water. Aluminoxanes also can be referred to as poly(hydrocarbyl aluminum oxides) or organoaluminoxanes.

The other catalyst components typically can be contacted with the aluminoxane in a saturated hydrocarbon compound solvent, though any solvent that is substantially inert to the reactants, intermediates, and products of the activation step can be used. The catalyst composition formed in this manner can be collected by any suitable method, for example, by filtration. Alternatively, the catalyst composition can be introduced into the polymerization reactor without being isolated.

The aluminoxane compound of this invention can be an oligomeric aluminum compound comprising linear structures, cyclic structures, or cage structures, or mixtures of all three. Cyclic aluminoxane compounds having the formula:

wherein each R in this formula independently can be a linear or branched alkyl having from 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and p in this formula can be an integer from 3 to 20, are encompassed by this invention. The AlRO moiety shown here also can constitute the repeating unit in a linear aluminoxane. Thus, linear aluminoxanes having the formula:

wherein each R in this formula independently can be a linear or branched alkyl having from 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and q in this formula can be an integer from 1 to 50, are also encompassed by this invention.

Further, aluminoxanes can have cage structures of the formula R_(5r+α) ^(t)R_(r−α) ^(b)Al_(4r)O_(3r), wherein each R^(t) independently can be a terminal linear or branched alkyl group having from 1 to 10 carbon atoms; each R^(b) independently can be a bridging linear or branched alkyl group having from 1 to 10 carbon atoms; r can be 3 or 4; and α can be equal to n_(Al(3))−n_(O(2))+n_(O(4)), wherein n_(Al(3)) is the number of three coordinate aluminum atoms, n_(O(2)) is the number of two coordinate oxygen atoms, and n_(O(4)) is the number of 4 coordinate oxygen atoms.

Thus, aluminoxanes which can be employed in the catalyst compositions of the present invention can be represented generally by formulas such as (R—Al—O)_(p), R(R—Al—O)_(q)AlR₂, and the like. In these formulas, each R group independently can be a linear or branched C₁-C₆ alkyl, such as methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, pentyl, or hexyl. Examples of aluminoxane compounds that can be used in accordance with the present invention can include, but are not limited to, methylaluminoxane, modified methylaluminoxane, ethylaluminoxane, n-propylaluminoxane, iso-propylaluminoxane, n-butylaluminoxane, t-butylaluminoxane, sec-butylaluminoxane, iso-butylaluminoxane, 1-pentylaluminoxane, 2-pentylaluminoxane, 3-pentylaluminoxane, isopentylaluminoxane, neopentylaluminoxane, and the like, or any combination thereof. Methylaluminoxane, ethylaluminoxane, and iso-butylaluminoxane can be prepared from trimethylaluminum, triethylaluminum, or triisobutylaluminum, respectively, and sometimes are referred to as poly(methyl aluminum oxide), poly(ethyl aluminum oxide), and poly(isobutyl aluminum oxide), respectively. It is also within the scope of the invention to use an aluminoxane in combination with a trialkylaluminum, such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,794,096, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The present invention contemplates many values of p and q in the aluminoxane formulas (R—Al—O)_(p) and R(R—Al—O)_(q)AlR₂, respectively. In some aspects, p and q can be at least 3. However, depending upon how the organoaluminoxane is prepared, stored, and used, the value of p and q can vary within a single sample of aluminoxane, and such combinations of organoaluminoxanes are contemplated herein.

In preparing a catalyst composition containing an aluminoxane, the molar ratio of the total moles of aluminum in the aluminoxane (or aluminoxanes) to the total moles of transition metal complex(es) in the composition generally can be between about 1:10 and about 100,000:1. In another aspect, the molar ratio can be in a range from about 5:1 to about 15,000:1. Optionally, aluminoxane can be added to a polymerization zone in ranges from about 0.01 mg/L to about 1000 mg/L, from about 0.1 mg/L to about 100 mg/L, or from about 1 mg/L to about 50 mg/L.

Organoaluminoxanes can be prepared by various procedures. Examples of organoaluminoxane preparations are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,242,099 and 4,808,561, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. For example, water in an inert organic solvent can be reacted with an aluminum alkyl compound, such as (R^(X))₃Al, to form the desired organoaluminoxane compound. While not intending to be bound by this statement, it is believed that this synthetic method can afford a mixture of both linear and cyclic R—Al—O aluminoxane species, both of which are encompassed by this invention. Alternatively, organoaluminoxanes can be prepared by reacting an aluminum alkyl compound, such as (R^(X))₃Al, with a hydrated salt, such as hydrated copper sulfate, in an inert organic solvent.

Organoboron & Organoborate Compounds

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the catalyst composition can comprise an organoboron or organoborate compound. Such compounds can include neutral boron compounds, borate salts, and the like, or combinations thereof. For example, fluoroorgano boron compounds and fluoroorgano borate compounds are contemplated.

Any fluoroorgano boron or fluoroorgano borate compound can be utilized with the present invention. Examples of fluoroorgano borate compounds that can be used in the present invention can include, but are not limited to, fluorinated aryl borates such as N,N-dimethylanilinium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, triphenylcarbenium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, lithium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, N,N-dimethylanilinium tetrakis[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borate, triphenylcarbenium tetrakis[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borate, and the like, or mixtures thereof. Examples of fluoroorgano boron compounds that can be used as co-catalysts in the present invention can include, but are not limited to, tris(pentafluorophenyl)boron, tris[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)-phenyl]boron, and the like, or mixtures thereof. Although not intending to be bound by the following theory, these examples of fluoroorgano borate and fluoroorgano boron compounds, and related compounds, can form “weakly-coordinating” anions when combined with a transition metal complex (see e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,919,983, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). Applicants also contemplate the use of diboron, or bis-boron, compounds or other bifunctional compounds containing two or more boron atoms in the chemical structure, such as disclosed in J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2005, 127, pp. 14756-14768, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Generally, any amount of organoboron compound can be used. According to one aspect of this invention, the molar ratio of the total moles of organoboron or organoborate compound (or compounds) to the total moles of transition metal complex (or complexes) in the catalyst composition can be in a range from about 0.1:1 to about 15:1. Typically, the amount of the fluoroorgano boron or fluoroorgano borate compound used can be from about 0.5 moles to about 10 moles of boron/borate compound per mole of transition metal complex(es). According to another aspect of this invention, the amount of fluoroorgano boron or fluoroorgano borate compound can be from about 0.8 moles to about 5 moles of boron/borate compound per mole of transition metal complex(es).

Ionizing Ionic Compounds

In another embodiment, catalyst compositions disclosed herein can comprise an ionizing ionic compound. An ionizing ionic compound is an ionic compound that can function as a co-catalyst to enhance the activity of the catalyst composition. While not intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that the ionizing ionic compound can be capable of reacting with a transition metal complex and converting the transition metal complex into one or more cationic transition metal complexes, or incipient cationic transition metal complexes. Again, while not intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that the ionizing ionic compound can function as an ionizing compound by completely or partially extracting an anionic ligand, such as X¹ or X², from the transition metal complex. However, the ionizing ionic compound can be a co-catalyst regardless of whether it is ionizes the transition metal complex, abstracts a X¹ or X² ligand in a fashion as to form an ion pair, weakens the metal-X¹ or metal-X² bond in the transition metal complex, simply coordinates to a X¹ or X² ligand, or activates the transition metal complex by some other mechanism.

Further, it is not necessary that the ionizing ionic compound activate the transition metal complex only. The activation function of the ionizing ionic compound can be evident in the enhanced activity of catalyst composition as a whole, as compared to a catalyst composition that does not contain an ionizing ionic compound.

Examples of ionizing ionic compounds can include, but are not limited to, the following compounds: tri(n-butyl)ammonium tetrakis(p-tolyl)borate, tri(n-butyl)ammonium tetrakis(m-tolyl)borate, tri(n-butyl)ammonium tetrakis(2,4-dimethylphenyl)borate, tri(n-butyl)ammonium tetrakis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)borate, tri(n-butyl)ammonium tetrakis[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borate, tri(n-butyl)ammonium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, N,N-dimethylanilinium tetrakis(p-tolyl)borate, N,N-dimethylanilinium tetrakis(m-tolyl)borate, N,N-dimethylanilinium tetrakis(2,4-dimethylphenyl)borate, N,N-dimethylanilinium tetrakis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)borate, N,N-dimethylanilinium tetrakis[3,5-bis(tri fluoromethyl)phenyl]borate, N,N-dimethylanilinium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, triphenylcarbenium tetrakis(p-tolyl)borate, triphenylcarbenium tetrakis(m-tolyl)borate, triphenylcarbenium tetrakis(2,4-dimethylphenyl)borate, triphenylcarbenium tetrakis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)borate, triphenylcarbenium tetrakis[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borate, triphenylcarbenium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, tropylium tetrakis(p-tolyl)borate, tropylium tetrakis(m-tolyl)borate, tropylium tetrakis(2,4-dimethylphenyl)borate, tropylium tetrakis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)borate, tropylium tetrakis[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borate, tropylium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, lithium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, lithium tetraphenylborate, lithium tetrakis(p-tolyl)borate, lithium tetrakis(m-tolyl)borate, lithium tetrakis(2,4-dimethylphenyl)borate, lithium tetrakis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)borate, lithium tetrafluoroborate, sodium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, sodium tetraphenylborate, sodium tetrakis(p-tolyl)borate, sodium tetrakis(m-tolyl)borate, sodium tetrakis(2,4-dimethylphenyl)borate, sodium tetrakis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)borate, sodium tetrafluoroborate, potassium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate, potassium tetraphenylborate, potassium tetrakis(p-tolyl)borate, potassium tetrakis(m-tolyl)borate, potassium tetrakis(2,4-dimethyl-phenyl)borate, potassium tetrakis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)borate, potassium tetrafluoroborate, lithium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate, lithium tetraphenylaluminate, lithium tetrakis(p-tolyl)aluminate, lithium tetrakis(m-tolyl)aluminate, lithium tetrakis(2,4-dimethylphenyl)aluminate, lithium tetrakis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)aluminate, lithium tetrafluoroaluminate, sodium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate, sodium tetraphenylaluminate, sodium tetrakis(p-tolyl)aluminate, sodium tetrakis(m-tolyl)aluminate, sodium tetrakis(2,4-dimethylphenyl)aluminate, sodium tetrakis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)aluminate, sodium tetrafluoroaluminate, potassium tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)aluminate, potassium tetraphenylaluminate, potassium tetrakis(p-tolyl)aluminate, potassium tetrakis(m-tolyl)-aluminate, potassium tetrakis(2,4-dimethylphenyl)aluminate, potassium tetrakis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)aluminate, potassium tetrafluoroaluminate, and the like, or combinations thereof. Ionizing ionic compounds useful in this invention are not limited to these; other examples of ionizing ionic compounds are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,576,259 and 5,807,938, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Organozinc, Organomagnesium, & Organolithium Compounds

Other embodiments are directed to catalyst compositions which can include an organozinc compound, an organomagnesium compound, an organolithium compound, or a combination thereof. In some aspects, these compounds have the following general formulas: Zn(X¹⁰)(X¹¹); Mg(X¹²)(X¹³); and Li(X¹⁴). In these formulas, X¹⁰, X¹², and X¹⁴ independently can be a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group, and X¹¹ and X¹³ independently can be H, a halide, or a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl or C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarboxy group. It is contemplated X¹⁰ and X¹¹ (or X¹² and X¹³) can be the same, or that X¹⁰ and X¹¹ (or X¹² and X¹³) can be different.

In one aspect, X¹⁰, X¹¹, X¹², X¹³, and X¹⁴ independently can be any C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₁₂ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₈ hydrocarbyl group, or C₁ to C₅ hydrocarbyl group disclosed herein. In another aspect, X¹⁰, X¹¹, X¹², X¹³, and X¹⁴ independently can be any C₁ to C₁₈ alkyl group, C₂ to C₁₈ alkenyl group, C₆ to C₁₈ aryl group, or C₇ to C₁₈ aralkyl group disclosed herein; alternatively, any C₁ to C₁₂ alkyl group, C₂ to C₁₂ alkenyl group, C₆ to C₁₂ aryl group, or C₇ to C₁₂ aralkyl group disclosed herein; or alternatively, any C₁ to C₅ alkyl group, C₂ to C₅ alkenyl group, C₆ to C₈ aryl group, or C₇ to C₈ aralkyl group disclosed herein. Thus, X¹⁰, X¹¹, X¹², X¹³, and X¹⁴ independently can be a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group, a pentyl group, a hexyl group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, a nonyl group, a decyl group, a undecyl group, a dodecyl group, a tridecyl group, a tetradecyl group, a pentadecyl group, a hexadecyl group, a heptadecyl group, an octadecyl group, an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, a hexenyl group, a heptenyl group, an octenyl group, a nonenyl group, a decenyl group, a undecenyl group, a dodecenyl group, a tridecenyl group, a tetradecenyl group, a pentadecenyl group, a hexadecenyl group, a heptadecenyl group, an octadecenyl group, a phenyl group, a naphthyl group, a benzyl group, or a tolyl group, and the like. In yet another aspect, X¹⁰, X¹¹, X¹², X¹³, and X¹⁴ independently can be methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, or pentyl (e.g., neopentyl), or both X¹⁰ and X¹¹ (or both X¹² and X¹³) can be methyl, or ethyl, or propyl, or butyl, or pentyl (e.g., neopentyl).

X¹¹ and X¹³ independently can be H, a halide, or a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl or C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarboxy group (e.g., any C₁ to C₁₈, C₁ to C₁₂, C₁ to C₁₀, or C₁ to C₈ hydrocarboxy group disclosed herein). In some aspects, X¹¹ and X¹³ independently can be H, a halide (e.g., Cl), or a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl or C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarboxy group; alternatively, H, a halide, or a C₁ to C₈ hydrocarbyl or C₁ to C₈ hydrocarboxy group; or alternatively, H, Br, Cl, F, I, methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, pentyl (e.g., neopentyl), hexyl, heptyl, octyl, nonyl, decyl, ethenyl, propenyl, butenyl, pentenyl, hexenyl, heptenyl, octenyl, nonenyl, decenyl, phenyl, benzyl, tolyl, methoxy, ethoxy, propoxy, butoxy, pentoxy, phenoxy, toloxy, xyloxy, or benzoxy.

In other aspects, the organozinc and/or the organomagnesium compound can have one or two hydrocarbylsilyl moieties. Each hydrocarbyl of the hydrocarbylsilyl group can be any hydrocarbyl group disclosed herein (e.g., a C₁ to C₁₈ alkyl group, a C₂ to C₁₈ alkenyl group, a C₆ to C₁₈ aryl group, a C₇ to C₁₈ aralkyl group, etc.). Illustrative and non-limiting examples of hydrocarbylsilyl groups can include, but are not limited to, trimethylsilyl, triethylsilyl, tripropylsilyl (e.g., triisopropylsilyl), tributylsilyl, tripentylsilyl, triphenylsilyl, allyldimethylsilyl, trimethylsilylmethyl, and the like.

Exemplary organozinc compounds which can be used as co-catalysts can include, but are not limited to, dimethylzinc, diethylzinc, dipropylzinc, dibutylzinc, dineopentylzinc, di(trimethylsilyl)zinc, di(triethylsilyl)zinc, di(triisoproplysilyl)zinc, di(triphenylsilyl)zinc, di(allyldimethylsilyl)zinc, di(trimethylsilylmethyl)zinc, and the like, or combinations thereof.

Similarly, exemplary organomagnesium compounds can include, but are not limited to, dimethylmagnesium, diethylmagnesium, dipropylmagnesium, dibutylmagnesium, dineopentylmagnesium, di(trimethylsilylmethyl)magnesium, methylmagnesium chloride, ethylmagnesium chloride, propylmagnesium chloride, butylmagnesium chloride, neopentylmagnesium chloride, trimethylsilylmethylmagnesium chloride, methylmagnesium bromide, ethylmagnesium bromide, propylmagnesium bromide, butylmagnesium bromide, neopentylmagnesium bromide, trimethylsilylmethylmagnesium bromide, methylmagnesium iodide, ethylmagnesium iodide, propylmagnesium iodide, butylmagnesium iodide, neopentylmagnesium iodide, trimethylsilylmethylmagnesium iodide, methylmagnesium ethoxide, ethylmagnesium ethoxide, propylmagnesium ethoxide, butylmagnesium ethoxide, neopentylmagnesium ethoxide, trimethylsilylmethylmagnesium ethoxide, methylmagnesium propoxide, ethylmagnesium propoxide, propylmagnesium propoxide, butylmagnesium propoxide, neopentylmagnesium propoxide, trimethylsilylmethylmagnesium propoxide, methylmagnesium phenoxide, ethylmagnesium phenoxide, propylmagnesium phenoxide, butylmagnesium phenoxide, neopentylmagnesium phenoxide, trimethylsilylmethylmagnesium phenoxide, and the like, or any combinations thereof.

Likewise, exemplary organolithium compounds can include, but are not limited to, methyllithium, ethyllithium, propyllithium, butyllithium (e.g., t-butyllithium), neopentyllithium, trimethylsilylmethyllithium, phenyllithium, tolyllithium, xylyllithium, benzyllithium, (dimethylphenyl)methyllithium, allyllithium, and the like, or combinations thereof.

Catalyst Compositions

Consistent with embodiments disclosed herein are various catalyst systems and compositions. A composition in accordance with an embodiment of the invention can comprise an amine bis(phenolate) transition metal complex (e.g., an N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine transition metal compound). In another embodiment, a catalyst composition can comprise a transition metal complex, an activator-support, and an optional co-catalyst. In one aspect, the present invention can encompass catalyst compositions comprising a transition metal complex, a chemically-treated solid oxide, and an organoaluminum compound, while in another aspect, the present invention can encompass catalyst compositions comprising a transition metal complex, a chemically-treated solid oxide, and a co-catalyst comprising an aluminoxane compound, an organoboron or organoborate compound, an ionizing ionic compound, an organoaluminum compound, an organozinc compound, an organomagnesium compound, or an organolithium compound, or any combination thereof. These catalyst compositions can be utilized to produce alpha olefin polymer (or oligomer) products for a variety of end-use applications.

Transition metal complexes or compounds having formulas (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb) were discussed above. In aspects of the present invention, it is contemplated that the catalyst composition can contain more than one transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb). Further, additional catalytic compounds (e.g., metallocene compounds)—other than those having formulas (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb)—can be employed in the catalyst composition and/or the polymerization process, provided that the additional catalytic compound(s) does not detract from the advantages disclosed herein. Additionally, more than one activator-support and/or more than one co-catalyst also can be utilized in the catalyst composition.

Generally, catalyst compositions of the present invention can comprise a transition metal complex having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb) and an activator-support. In aspects of the invention, the activator-support can comprise a solid oxide treated with an electron-withdrawing anion. Activator-supports useful in the present invention were disclosed above. Optionally, such catalyst compositions can further comprise one or more than one organoaluminum compound or compounds (suitable organoaluminum compounds also were discussed above). Thus, a catalyst composition of this invention can comprise a transition metal complex having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an organoaluminum compound. For instance, the activator-support can comprise (or consist essentially of, or consist of) fluorided alumina, chlorided alumina, bromided alumina, sulfated alumina, fluorided silica-alumina, chlorided silica-alumina, bromided silica-alumina, sulfated silica-alumina, fluorided silica-zirconia, chlorided silica-zirconia, bromided silica-zirconia, sulfated silica-zirconia, fluorided silica-titania, fluorided silica-coated alumina, sulfated silica-coated alumina, phosphated silica-coated alumina, and the like, or combinations thereof. Additionally, the organoaluminum compound can comprise (or consist essentially of, or consist of) trimethylaluminum, triethylaluminum, tri-n-propylaluminum, tri-n-butylaluminum, triisobutylaluminum, tri-n-hexylaluminum, tri-n-octylaluminum, diisobutylaluminum hydride, diethylaluminum ethoxide, diethylaluminum chloride, and the like, or combinations thereof. Accordingly, a catalyst composition consistent with aspects of the invention can comprise (or consist essentially of, or consist of) a transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), sulfated alumina (or fluorided silica-alumina, or fluorided silica-coated alumina), and triethylaluminum (or triisobutylaluminum).

In another aspect of the present invention, a catalyst composition is provided which comprises a transition metal complex having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an organoaluminum compound, wherein this catalyst composition is substantially free of aluminoxanes, organoboron or organoborate compounds, ionizing ionic compounds, and/or other similar co-catalysts; alternatively, substantially free of aluminoxanes; alternatively, substantially free or organoboron or organoborate compounds; or alternatively, substantially free of ionizing ionic compounds. In these aspects, the catalyst composition has catalyst activity in the absence of these additional materials. For example, a catalyst composition of the present invention can consist essentially of a transition metal complex having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an organoaluminum compound, wherein no other materials are present in the catalyst composition which would increase/decrease the activity of the catalyst composition by more than about 10% from the catalyst activity of the catalyst composition in the absence of said materials.

However, in other aspects of this invention, these co-catalysts can be employed. For example, a catalyst composition comprising a transition metal complex having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb) and an activator-support can further comprise an optional co-catalyst. Suitable co-catalysts in this aspect can include, but are not limited to, aluminoxane compounds, organoboron or organoborate compounds, ionizing ionic compounds, organoaluminum compounds, organozinc compounds, organomagnesium compounds, organolithium compounds, and the like, or any combination thereof.

In a different aspect, a catalyst composition is provided which contains a co-catalyst other than an organoaluminum compound. Such a catalyst composition can comprise a transition metal complex having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and a co-catalyst, wherein the co-catalyst comprises an aluminoxane compound, an organoboron or organoborate compound, an ionizing ionic compound, an organozinc compound, an organomagnesium compound, an organolithium compound, and the like, or any combination thereof.

This invention further encompasses methods of making these catalyst compositions, such as, for example, contacting the respective catalyst components in any order or sequence.

The transition metal complex having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb) can be precontacted with an olefinic monomer if desired, not necessarily the olefin monomer to be polymerized, and an organoaluminum compound for a first period of time prior to contacting this precontacted mixture with an activator-support. The first period of time for contact, the precontact time, between the transition metal complex, the olefinic monomer, and the organoaluminum compound typically ranges from a time period of about 1 minute to about 24 hours, for example, from about 3 minutes to about 1 hour. Precontact times from about 10 minutes to about 30 minutes also can be employed. Alternatively, the precontacting process can be carried out in multiple steps, rather than a single step, in which multiple mixtures can be prepared, each comprising a different set of catalyst components. For example, at least two catalyst components can be contacted forming a first mixture, followed by contacting the first mixture with at least one other catalyst component forming a second mixture, and so forth.

Multiple precontacting steps can be carried out in a single vessel or in multiple vessels. Further, multiple precontacting steps can be carried out in series (sequentially), in parallel, or a combination thereof. For example, a first mixture of two catalyst components can be formed in a first vessel, a second mixture comprising the first mixture plus one additional catalyst component can be formed in the first vessel or in a second vessel, which is typically placed downstream of the first vessel.

In another aspect, one or more of the catalyst components can be split and used in different precontacting treatments. For example, part of a catalyst component can be fed into a first precontacting vessel for precontacting with at least one other catalyst component, while the remainder of that same catalyst component can be fed into a second precontacting vessel for precontacting with at least one other catalyst component, or can be fed directly into the reactor, or a combination thereof. The precontacting can be carried out in any suitable equipment, such as tanks, stirred mix tanks, various static mixing devices, a flask, a vessel of any type, or combinations of these apparatus.

In another aspect of this invention, the various catalyst components (for example, a transition metal complex having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, an organoaluminum co-catalyst, and optionally an unsaturated hydrocarbon) can be contacted in the polymerization reactor simultaneously while the polymerization reaction is proceeding. Alternatively, any two or more of these catalyst components can be precontacted in a vessel prior to entering the reaction zone. This precontacting step can be continuous, in which the precontacted product can be fed continuously to the reactor, or it can be a stepwise or batchwise process in which a batch of precontacted product can be added to make a catalyst composition. This precontacting step can be carried out over a time period that can range from a few seconds to as much as several days, or longer. In this aspect, the continuous precontacting step generally can last from about 1 second to about 1 hour. In another aspect, the continuous precontacting step can last from about 10 seconds to about 45 minutes, or from about 1 minute to about 30 minutes.

Once the precontacted mixture of the transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), the olefin monomer, and the organoaluminum co-catalyst is contacted with the activator-support, this composition (with the addition of the activator-support) can be termed the “postcontacted mixture.” The postcontacted mixture optionally can remain in contact for a second period of time, the postcontact time, prior to initiating the polymerization process. Postcontact times between the precontacted mixture and the activator-support generally range from about 1 minute to about 24 hours. In a further aspect, the postcontact time can be in a range from about 3 minutes to about 1 hour. The precontacting step, the postcontacting step, or both, can increase the productivity of the polymer as compared to the same catalyst composition that is prepared without precontacting or postcontacting. However, neither a precontacting step nor a postcontacting step is required.

The postcontacted mixture can be heated at a temperature and for a time period sufficient to allow adsorption, impregnation, or interaction of precontacted mixture and the activator-support, such that a portion of the components of the precontacted mixture can be immobilized, adsorbed, or deposited thereon. Where heating is employed, the postcontacted mixture generally can be heated to a temperature of from between about −15° C. to about 70° C., or from about 0° C. to about 40° C.

When a precontacting step is used, the molar ratio of the total moles of olefin monomer to total moles of transition metal compound(s) in the precontacted mixture typically can be in a range from about 1:10 to about 100,000:1. Total moles of each component are used in this ratio to account for aspects of this invention where more than one olefin monomer and/or more than one transition metal complex is employed in a precontacting step. Further, this molar ratio can be in a range from about 10:1 to about 1,000:1 in another aspect of the invention.

Generally, the weight ratio of organoaluminum compound to activator-support can be in a range from about 10:1 to about 1:1000. If more than one organoaluminum compound and/or more than one activator-support is employed, this ratio is based on the total weight of each respective component. In another aspect, the weight ratio of the organoaluminum compound to the activator-support can be in a range from about 3:1 to about 1:100, or from about 1:1 to about 1:50.

In some aspects of this invention, the weight ratio of transition metal compound(s) to activator-support can be in a range from about 1:1 to about 1:1,000,000. If more than one activator-support is employed, this ratio is based on the total weight of the activator-support. In another aspect, this weight ratio can be in a range from about 1:5 to about 1:100,000, or from about 1:10 to about 1:10,000. Yet, in another aspect, the weight ratio of the transition metal compound(s) to the activator-support can be in a range from about 1:20 to about 1:1000.

As discussed above, any combination of the transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), the activator-support, the organoaluminum compound, and the olefin monomer, can be precontacted in some aspects of this invention. When any precontacting occurs with an olefinic monomer, it is not necessary that the olefin monomer used in the precontacting step be the same as the olefin to be polymerized. Further, when a precontacting step among any combination of the catalyst components is employed for a first period of time, this precontacted mixture can be used in a subsequent postcontacting step between any other combination of catalyst components for a second period of time. For example, the transition metal compound, the organoaluminum compound, and 1-hexene can be used in a precontacting step for a first period of time, and this precontacted mixture then can be contacted with the activator-support to form a postcontacted mixture that can be contacted for a second period of time prior to initiating the polymerization reaction. For example, the first period of time for contact, the precontact time, between any combination of the transition metal compound, the olefinic monomer, the activator-support, and the organoaluminum compound can be from about 1 minute to about 24 hours, from about 3 minutes to about 1 hour, or from about 10 minutes to about 30 minutes. The postcontacted mixture optionally can be allowed to remain in contact for a second period of time, the postcontact time, prior to initiating the polymerization process. According to one aspect of this invention, postcontact times between the precontacted mixture and any remaining catalyst components can be from about 1 minute to about 24 hours, or from about 5 minutes to about 1 hour.

Alpha Olefin Monomers, Alpha Olefin Products, and Articles

A wide range of alpha olefin monomers can be polymerized (or oligomerized) according to the methods provided herein, and using the catalyst compositions disclosed herein. In some embodiments, for example, alpha olefin polymerization (or oligomerization) products can be produced from an alpha olefin monomer comprising, or consisting essentially of, a C₃ to C₇₀ alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₃ to C₆₀ alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₄ to C₆₀ alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₅ to C₁₈ alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₆ to C₁₄ alpha olefin; or alternatively, a C₈ to C₁₂ alpha olefin. In other embodiments, alpha olefin oligomer products can be produced from an alpha olefin monomer comprising, or consisting essentially of, a C₆ alpha olefin, a C₈ alpha olefin, a C₁₀ alpha olefin, a C₁₂ alpha olefin, a C₁₄ alpha olefin, a C₁₆ alpha olefin, or any combination thereof; alternatively, a C₈ alpha olefin, a C₁₀ alpha olefin, a C₁₂ alpha olefin, or any combination thereof; alternatively, a C₆ alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₈ alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₀ alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₂ alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₄ alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₆ alpha olefin; or alternatively, a C₁₈ alpha olefin. In an aspect, the alpha olefin product can be produced from an alpha olefin monomer comprising, or consisting essentially of, a C₃ to C_(o) linear alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₄ to C₆₀ linear alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₄ to C₂₀ linear alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₅ to C₁₈ linear alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₆ to C₁₄ linear alpha olefin; or alternatively, a C₈ to C₁₂ linear alpha olefin. In another aspect, the alpha olefin product can be produced from an alpha olefin monomer comprising, or consisting essentially of, a C₃ to C₇₀ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₄ to C₆₀ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₄ to C₂₀ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₅ to C₁₈ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₆ to C₁₄ normal alpha olefin; or alternatively, a C₈ to C₁₂ normal alpha olefin. In yet another aspect, the alpha olefin product can be produced from an alpha olefin monomer comprising, or consisting essentially of, a C₆ normal alpha olefin, a C₈ normal alpha olefin, a C₁₀ normal alpha olefin, a C₁₂ normal alpha olefin, a C₁₄ normal alpha olefin, a C₁₆ normal alpha olefin, or any combination thereof; alternatively, a C₈ normal alpha olefin, a C₁₀ normal alpha olefin, a C₁₂ normal alpha olefin, or any combination thereof; alternatively, a C₆ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₈ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₀ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₂ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₄ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₆ normal alpha olefin; or alternatively, a C₁₈ normal alpha olefin.

In another aspect, the alpha olefin polymer (or oligomer) product can be produced from an alpha olefin monomer comprising, or consisting essentially of, 1-butene, 1-pentene, 1-hexene, 1-heptene, 1-octene, 1-nonene, 1-decene, 1-undecene, 1-dodecene, 1-tridecene, 1-tetradecene, 1-pentadecene, 1-hexadecene, 1-heptadecene, 1-octadecene, or any combination thereof; alternatively, 1-hexene, 1-heptene, 1-octene, 1-nonene, 1-decene, 1-undecene, 1-dodecene, 1-tridecene, 1-tetradecene, 1-pentadecene, 1-hexadecene, or any combination thereof; or alternatively, 1-octene, 1-nonene, 1-decene, 1-undecene, 1-dodecene, or any combination thereof. In yet another aspect, the alpha olefin product can be produced from an alpha olefin monomer comprising, or consisting essentially of, 1-hexene, 1-octene, 1-decene, 1-dodecene, 1-tetradecene, 1-hexadecene, or any combination thereof; alternatively, 1-hexene, 1-octene, 1-decene, 1-tetradecene, or any combination thereof. In still another aspect, the alpha olefin product can be produced from an alpha olefin monomer comprising, or consisting essentially of, 1-butene; alternatively, 1-pentene; alternatively, 1-hexene; alternatively, 1-heptene; alternatively, 1-octene; alternatively, 1-nonene; alternatively, 1-decene; alternatively, 1-undecene; alternatively, 1-dodecene; alternatively, 1-tridecene; alternatively, 1-tetradecene; alternatively, 1-pentadecene; alternatively, 1-hexadecene; alternatively, 1-heptadecene; or alternatively, 1-octadecene.

In an aspect, the alpha olefin product can be produced from an alpha olefin monomer comprising, or consisting essentially of, an alpha olefin having the formula CH₂═CH(CH₂)_(n)CH₃, wherein n can be an integer from 1 to 17; alternatively, having the formula CH₂═CH(CH₂)_(n)CH₃, wherein n can be an integer from 2 to 15; alternatively, having the formula CH₂═CH(CH₂)_(n)CH₃, wherein n can be an integer from 3 to 13; or alternatively, having the formula CH₂═CH(CH₂)_(n)CH₃, wherein n can be an integer from 5 to 9. In another aspect, the alpha olefin product can be produced from an alpha olefin monomer comprising, or consisting essentially of, an alpha olefin having the formula CH₂═CH(CH₂)_(n)CH₃, wherein n can be 3; alternatively, an alpha olefin having the formula CH₂═CH(CH₂)_(n)CH₃, wherein n can be 5; alternatively, an alpha olefin having the formula CH₂═CH(CH₂)_(n)CH₃, wherein n can be 7; alternatively, an alpha olefin having the formula CH₂═CH(CH₂)_(n)CH₃, wherein n can be 9; alternatively, an alpha olefin having the formula CH₂═CH(CH₂)_(n)CH₃, wherein n can be 11; alternatively, an alpha olefin having the formula CH₂═CH(CH₂)_(n)CH₃, wherein n can be 13; or alternatively, an alpha olefin having the formula CH₂═CH(CH₂)_(n)CH₃, wherein n can be 15.

In an aspect, the alpha olefin product which can be produced according to the methods described herein can be produced using an olefin monomer comprising, or consisting essentially of, a blend or mixture of alpha olefins; or alternatively, a blend or mixture of normal alpha olefins. Generally, the olefin monomer can be a blend or mixture of any alpha olefin described herein, or alternatively, any normal alpha olefin, described herein. In one aspect, the blend of alpha olefins can comprise at least 50 weight percent, at least 60 weight percent, at least 70 weight percent, at least 75 weight percent, at least 80 weight percent, at least 85 weight percent, at least 90 weight percent, at least 92.5 weight percent, or at least 95 weight percent of any carbon number range of alpha olefins described herein; alternatively, of any combination of single carbon numbered alpha olefins described herein; or alternatively, of any single carbon numbered alpha olefin described herein. In another aspect, the blend or mixture of normal alpha olefins can comprise at least 50 weight percent, at least 60 weight percent, at least 70 weight percent, at least 75 weight percent, at least 80 weight percent, at least 85 weight percent, at least 90 weight percent, at least 92.5 weight percent, or at least 95 weight percent of any carbon numbered range of normal alpha olefins described herein; alternatively, any combination of single carbon numbered normal alpha olefins described herein; or alternatively, any single numbered normal alpha olefin described herein.

In a non-limiting example, the olefin monomer can comprise a blend of alpha olefins comprising at least 80 weight percent of C₆ to C₁₆ alpha olefins; alternatively, at least 60 weight percent of a C₆ alpha olefin and C₁₄ alpha olefin; alternatively, at least 90 weight percent of a C₈ to C₁₂ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, at least 85 weight percent of 1-hexene, 1-decene, and 1-tetradecene; alternatively, at least 75 weight percent 1-octene; or alternatively, at least 75 weight percent of a normal alpha olefin consisting essentially of 1-octene. In another non-limiting example, the single carbon numbered alpha olefin which can be utilized in an alpha olefin blend can consist essentially of a C₆ alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₈ alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₀ alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₂ alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₄ alpha olefin; or alternatively, a C₁₆ alpha olefin. In yet another non-limiting example, the single carbon numbered normal alpha olefin which can be utilized in an alpha olefin blend or normal alpha olefin blend can consist essentially of a C₆ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₈ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₀ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₂ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₁₄ normal alpha olefin; or alternatively, a C₁₆ normal alpha olefin. Other potential blends of alpha olefin and/or normal alpha olefin monomer which can be utilized are readily apparent from the present disclosure.

As described, the alpha olefin product can be produced by polymerizing/oligomerizing an alpha olefin monomer. These alpha olefin products comprise units derived from the alpha olefin monomer(s). One having ordinary skill in the art will recognize that a catalyst system utilized to form the alpha olefin product can, in some aspects, isomerize the alpha olefin monomer to a non-alpha olefin (e.g., an internal olefin). Alternatively or additionally, the alpha olefin feedstock can contain quantities of non-alpha olefins. Depending upon the catalyst system utilized, the non-alpha olefins can be incorporated into the alpha olefin oligomer or polymer (and such that the resulting product can contain alpha olefin monomer units in combination with internal olefin monomer units). In some instances, the catalyst system can limit the extent of alpha olefin isomerization and/or limit the quantity of non-alpha olefins incorporated into the alpha olefin oligomer. Consequently, one feature of the alpha olefin polymerization/oligomerization product can be the percentage of alpha olefin units in the alpha olefin product. Thus, in any disclosed aspect or embodiment, the alpha olefin product described herein can comprise at least 70 percent alpha olefin monomer units; alternatively, at least 75 percent alpha olefin monomer units; alternatively, at least 80 percent alpha olefin monomer units; alternatively, at least 85 percent alpha olefin monomer units; alternatively, at least 90 percent alpha olefin monomer units; alternatively, at least 95 percent alpha olefin monomer units; alternatively, at least 98 percent alpha olefin monomer units; or alternatively, at least 99 percent alpha olefin monomer units. In a further aspect, the alpha olefin product can consist essentially of alpha olefin monomer units, and the alpha olefin can be any alpha olefin described herein.

In an aspect, the collection of alpha olefin monomer and alpha olefin product in the reactor effluent or the alpha olefin product according to this disclosure can comprise less than 20 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 17.5 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 15 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 12.5 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 10 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 9 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 8 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 7 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 6 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 5 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 4 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 3 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 2 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 1 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.8 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.6 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.5 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.4 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.3 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.2 weight % alpha olefin monomer; or alternatively, less than 0.1 weight % alpha olefin monomer. In another aspect, the alpha olefin monomer content can be referred to as residual alpha olefin monomer (e.g., a separated reactor effluent) and can be any alpha olefin monomer content described herein. In another aspect, the collection of alpha olefin monomer and alpha olefin product in the reactor effluent or the alpha olefin product according to this disclosure can comprise less than 20 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 19 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 18 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 17 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 16 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 15 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 14 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 13 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 12 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 11 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 10 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 9 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 8 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 7 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 6 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 5 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 4 weight % dimers; less than 3 weight % dimers; less than 2.5 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 2 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 1.75 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 1.5 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 1.25 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 1 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.9 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.8 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.7 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.6 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.5 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.4 weight % dimers; or alternatively, less than 0.3 weight % dimers. In another aspect, the collection of alpha olefin monomer and alpha olefin product in the reactor effluent or the alpha olefin product according to this disclosure can comprise less than 20 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 17.5 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 15 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 12.5 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 10 weight % trimers; less than 7.5 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 5 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 4 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 3 weight % trimers; 2 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 1.75 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 1.5 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 1.25 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 1 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.9 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.8 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.7 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.6 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.5 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.4 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.3 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.2 weight % trimers; or alternatively, less than 0.1 weight % trimers. In another aspect, the collection of alpha olefin monomer and alpha olefin product in the reactor effluent or the alpha olefin product according to this disclosure can comprise at least 50 weight % higher oligomers (containing 4 or more alpha olefin monomer units); alternatively, at least 55 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 60 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 62.5 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 65 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 67.5 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 70 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 72.5 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 75 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 77.5 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 80 weight % higher oligomers; at least 82.5 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 85 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 86 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 87 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 88 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 89 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 90 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 91 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 92 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 93 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 94 weight % higher oligomers; or alternatively, at least 95 weight % higher oligomers. Moreover, any appropriate combination of these alpha olefin oligomer weight percentage features can be utilized to describe the collection of alpha olefin monomer and alpha olefin product in the reactor effluent and/or the alpha olefin product. Generally, the weight percent of alpha olefin monomers, dimers, trimers, and higher oligomers of the collection of alpha olefin monomer and alpha olefin product in the reactor effluent satisfy the formula monomer+dimer+trimer+higher oligomer=100. Generally, the weight percent of dimers, trimers, and higher oligomers of the alpha olefin polymerization (or oligomerization) product satisfy the formula dimers+trimers+higher oligomers=100. However, when desired or necessary for clarity, the amount of monomer (residual monomer) can be stated (e.g., when referring to a fractionated reactor effluent, among other compositions) and in this instance the weight percent of alpha olefin monomers, dimers, trimers, and higher oligomers satisfy the formula monomers+dimers+trimers+higher oligomers=100.

In an aspect, the heavy oligomer product can comprise less than 1 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.8 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.6 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.5 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.4 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.3 weight % alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.2 weight % alpha olefin monomer; or alternatively, less than 0.1 weight % alpha olefin monomer. In some aspects, the alpha olefin monomer content of the heavy oligomer product can be referred to as residual alpha olefin monomer and can utilize any alpha olefin monomer content described herein. In another aspect, the heavy oligomer product according to this disclosure can comprise less than 10 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 9 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 8 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 7 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 6 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 5 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 4.5 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 4 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 3 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 2.5 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 2 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 1.75 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 1.5 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 1.25 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 1 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.9 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.8 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.7 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.6 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.5 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.4 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.3 weight % dimers; alternatively, less than 0.2 weight % dimers; or alternatively, less than 0.1 weight % dimers. In another aspect, the heavy oligomer product can comprise less than 20 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 17.5 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 15 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 12.5 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 10 weight % trimers; less than 7.5 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 5 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 4 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 3 weight % trimers; 2 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 1.75 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 1.5 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 1.25 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 1 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.9 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.8 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.7 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.6 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.5 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.4 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.3 weight % trimers; alternatively, less than 0.2 weight % trimers; or alternatively, less than 0.1 weight % trimers. In yet another aspect, the heavy oligomer product can comprise at least 80 weight % higher oligomers; at least 82.5 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 85 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 86 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 87 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 88 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 89 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 90 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 91 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 92 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 93 weight % higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 94 weight % higher oligomers; or alternatively, at least 95 weight % higher oligomers. Moreover, any appropriate combination of these weight percentage features can be utilized to describe a heavy oligomer product as provided herein. Generally, the weight percent of alpha olefin monomer, dimers, trimers, and higher oligomers of the heavy oligomer product satisfy the formula monomers+dimers+trimers+higher oligomers=100. In some instances, it may be desired only to refer to the heavy oligomer composition in terms of the oligomers and in this instance the weight percent of dimers, trimers, and higher oligomers of the heavy oligomer product satisfy the formula dimers+trimers+higher oligomers=100.

In an aspect, the PAO provided according to this disclosure, can comprise less than 1 weight % hydrogenated alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.8 weight % hydrogenated alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.6 weight % hydrogenated alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.5 weight % hydrogenated alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.4 weight % hydrogenated alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.3 weight % hydrogenated alpha olefin monomer; alternatively, less than 0.2 weight % hydrogenated alpha olefin monomer; or alternatively, less than 0.1 weight % hydrogenated alpha olefin monomer. In another aspect, the PAO prepared according to this disclosure can comprise less than 10 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 9 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 8 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 7 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 6 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 5 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 4 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 4.5 hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 3.5 hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 3 weight % hydrogenated dimers; less than 2.5 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 2 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 1.75 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 1.5 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 1.25 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 1 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 0.9 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 0.8 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 0.7 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 0.6 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 0.5 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 0.4 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 0.3 weight % hydrogenated dimers; alternatively, less than 0.2 weight % hydrogenated dimers; or alternatively, less than 0.1 weight % hydrogenated dimers. In another aspect, the PAO according to this disclosure can comprise less than 20 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 17.5 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 15 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 12.5 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 10 weight % hydrogenated trimers; less than 7.5 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 5 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 4 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 3 weight % hydrogenated trimers; 2 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 1.75 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 1.5 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 1.25 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 1 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 0.9 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 0.8 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 0.7 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 0.6 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 0.5 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 0.4 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 0.3 weight % hydrogenated trimers; alternatively, less than 0.2 weight % hydrogenated trimers; or alternatively, less than 0.1 weight % hydrogenated trimers. In a further aspect, the PAO according to this disclosure can comprise at least 80 weight % hydrogenated higher oligomers; at least 82.5 weight % hydrogenated higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 85 weight % hydrogenated higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 86 weight % hydrogenated higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 87 weight % hydrogenated higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 88 weight % hydrogenated higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 89 weight % hydrogenated higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 90 weight % hydrogenated higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 91 weight % hydrogenated higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 92 weight % hydrogenated higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 93 weight % hydrogenated higher oligomers; alternatively, at least 94 weight % hydrogenated higher oligomers; or alternatively, at least 95 weight % hydrogenated higher oligomers. Moreover, any appropriate combination of these features can be utilized to describe a PAO provided herein. Generally, the weight percent of hydrogenated alpha olefin monomers, hydrogenated dimers, hydrogenated trimers, and hydrogenated higher oligomers of the PAO satisfy the formula monomer+dimer+trimer+higher oligomer=100. In some instances, it may be desired only to refer to the PAO in terms of the oligomers, and in these instances, the weight percent of hydrogenated dimers, hydrogenated trimers, and hydrogenated higher oligomers of the PAO satisfy the formula dimers+trimers+higher oligomers=100. When referring the PAO, hydrogenated monomers, hydrogenated dimers, hydrogenated trimers, and hydrogenated higher olefins can also be referenced as saturated monomers, saturated dimers, saturated trimers, and saturated higher oligomers (respectively) and that any number associated with hydrogenated monomers, hydrogenated dimers, hydrogenated trimers, and hydrogenated higher olefins can be applied to the respective saturated alternative.

In an embodiment consistent with this invention, a process for producing a product (e.g., an alpha olefin product, an oligomerization product, etc.) can comprise contacting a catalyst composition and an alpha olefin monomer comprising a C₄ to C₆₀ alpha olefin to produce the product, and in this embodiment, the catalyst composition can comprise an N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound having formula (IIa) and/or (IIb), an activator-support, and optionally, a co-catalyst. Alpha olefin products thus produced often can have a M_(w) in a range from about 1,000 to about 150,000 g/mol. In some aspects, for instance, the M_(w) of the alpha olefin product can be at least 1,000; alternatively, at least 1,500; alternatively, at least 2,000; alternatively, at least 2,500; alternatively, at least 3,000; alternatively, at least 3,500; alternatively, at least 4,000; alternatively, at least 4,500; alternatively, at least 5,000; alternatively, at least 5,500; alternatively, at least 6,000; alternatively, at least 6,500; alternatively, at least 7,000; alternatively, at least 7,500; alternatively, at least 8,000; alternatively, at least 8,500; alternatively, at least 9,000; alternatively, at least 9,500; alternatively, at least 10,000; alternatively, at least 11,000; alternatively, at least 12,000; alternatively, at least 13,000; alternatively, at least 14,000; alternatively, at least 15,000; alternatively, at least 16,000; alternatively, at least 17,000; alternatively, at least 18,000; alternatively, at least 19,000; or alternatively, at least 20,000 g/mol. In some aspects, the M_(w) of the alpha olefin product can have an upper limit of M_(w) of 150,000; alternatively, 140,000; alternatively, 130,000; alternatively, 120,000; alternatively, 110,000; alternatively, 100,000; alternatively, 90,000; alternatively, 80,000; alternatively, 70,000; alternatively, 60,000; alternatively, 50,000; alternatively, 45,000; alternatively, 40,000; alternatively, 35,000; alternatively, 30,000; or alternatively, 25,000 g/mol. In these and other aspects, the alpha olefin product can have a M_(w) in a range from any minimum M_(w) disclosed herein to any maximum M_(w) disclosed herein. As non-limiting examples, the alpha olefin product can have a M_(w) in a range from 1,000 to 150,000; alternatively, from 2,000 to 150,000; alternatively, from 3,000 to 100,000; alternatively, from 3,500 to 75,000; alternatively, from 4,000 to 50,000; alternatively, from 3,000 to 40,000; alternatively, from 3,000 to 30,000; or alternatively, from 5,000 to 25,000 g/mol. In a further aspect, such molecular weights of the alpha olefin oligomer product can be achieved at an oligomerization temperature in a range from 10° C. to 60° C., or in a range from 15° C. to 30° C., but not being limited thereto.

Embodiments of this invention are also directed to, and encompass, the alpha olefin polymer (or oligomer) products produced by any of the polymerization (or oligomerization) processes disclosed herein. Articles of manufacture can be formed from, and/or can comprise, the alpha olefin products produced in accordance with this invention. For instance, a lubricant or lubricant composition can comprise an alpha olefin product produced herein. In one aspect, the alpha olefin product can be a viscosity modifier in a lubricant composition. In another aspect, the alpha olefin product can be used as sole base oil or utilized in combination with another base oil (e.g., a mineral oil and/or a PAO). Additives that can be utilized with the alpha olefin product in various compositions can include, but are not limited to, metal deactivators, detergents, dispersants, antioxidants, and the like, or combinations thereof.

In another embodiment consistent with this invention, a process for producing a product (e.g., an alpha olefin product, a polymerization product, etc.) can comprise contacting a catalyst composition and an alpha olefin monomer comprising a C₄ to C₆₀ alpha olefin to produce the product, and in this embodiment, the catalyst composition can comprise an N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound having formula (Ia) and/or (Ib), an activator-support, and optionally, a co-catalyst. Alpha olefin polymer products thus produced often can have a M_(w) in a range from about 250,000 to about 750,000,000 g/mol. In some aspects, for instance, the M_(w) of the alpha olefin product can be at least 250,000; alternatively, at least 500,000; alternatively, at least 750,000; alternatively, at least 1,000,000; alternatively, at least 1,500,000; alternatively, at least 2,000,000; alternatively, at least 2,500,000; alternatively, at least 3,000,000; alternatively, at least 3,500,000; or alternatively, at least 4,000,000 g/mol. In some aspects, the M_(w) of the alpha olefin product can have an upper limit of M_(w) of 750,000,000; alternatively, 500,000,000; alternatively, 250,000,000; alternatively, 100,000,000; alternatively, 75,000,000; alternatively, 50,000,000; alternatively, 25,000,000; alternatively, 15,000,000; alternatively, 12,500,000; alternatively, 10,000,000; alternatively, 7,500,000; or alternatively, 5,000,000 g/mol. In these and other aspects, the alpha olefin product can have a M_(w) in a range from any minimum M_(w) disclosed herein to any maximum M_(w) disclosed herein. As non-limiting examples, the alpha olefin product can have a M_(w) in a range from 250,000 to 750,000,000; alternatively, from 500,000 to 250,000,000; alternatively, from 500,000 to 50,000,000; alternatively, from 750,000 to 50,000,000; alternatively, from 500,000 to 15,000,000; alternatively, from 1,000,000 to 10,000,000; alternatively, from 750,000 to 7,500,000; alternatively, from 500,000 to 5,000,000; or alternatively, from 2,000,000 to 7,500,000 g/mol. In a further aspect, such molecular weights of the alpha olefin polymerization product can be achieved at a polymerization temperature in a range from 10° C. to 60° C., or in a range from 15° C. to 30° C., but not being limited thereto.

Embodiments of this invention are also directed to, and encompass, the alpha olefin polymer (or oligomer) products produced by any of the polymerization (or oligomerization) processes disclosed herein. Articles of manufacture can be formed from, and/or can comprise, the alpha olefin products produced in accordance with this invention. For instance, a drag reducing agent or a drag reducing composition can comprise an alpha olefin polymer product produced herein.

Polymerization/Oligomerization Processes

Catalyst compositions of the present invention can be used to polymerize (or oligomerize) alpha olefins to form polymer products (or oligomer products). One such process for producing an oligomer product can comprise contacting a catalyst composition and an alpha olefin monomer comprising a C₄ to C₆₀ alpha olefin to produce the product, wherein the catalyst composition can comprise a transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an optional co-catalyst. Transition metal complexes having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb) were discussed above.

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the process can employ a catalyst composition comprising a transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb) and an activator-support. Activator-supports useful in the processes of the present invention were disclosed above. In another aspect, the catalyst composition can further comprise one or more than one organoaluminum compound or compounds (suitable organoaluminum compounds also were discussed above). Thus, a process for producing an alpha olefin product can employ a catalyst composition comprising a transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an organoaluminum compound. In some aspects, the activator-support can comprise (or consist essentially of, or consist of) fluorided alumina, chlorided alumina, bromided alumina, sulfated alumina, fluorided silica-alumina, chlorided silica-alumina, bromided silica-alumina, sulfated silica-alumina, fluorided silica-zirconia, chlorided silica-zirconia, bromided silica-zirconia, sulfated silica-zirconia, fluorided silica-titania, fluorided silica-coated alumina, sulfated silica-coated alumina, phosphated silica-coated alumina, and the like, or combinations thereof. In some aspects, the organoaluminum compound can comprise (or consist essentially of, or consist of) trimethylaluminum, triethylaluminum, tri-n-propylaluminum, tri-n-butylaluminum, triisobutylaluminum, tri-n-hexylaluminum, tri-n-octylaluminum, diisobutylaluminum hydride, diethylaluminum ethoxide, diethylaluminum chloride, and the like, or combinations thereof.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the process for producing an alpha olefin product can employ a catalyst composition comprising a transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an optional co-catalyst, wherein the co-catalyst can comprise an aluminoxane compound, an organoboron or organoborate compound, an ionizing ionic compound, an organoaluminum compound, an organozinc compound, an organomagnesium compound, or an organolithium compound, or any combination thereof. Hence, aspects of this invention are directed to a process for producing an alpha olefin product, the process comprising contacting a catalyst composition and an alpha olefin monomer comprising a C₄ to C₆₀ alpha olefin to produce the product, and the catalyst composition can comprise a transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an aluminoxane compound; alternatively, a transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an organoboron or organoborate compound; alternatively, a transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an ionizing ionic compound; alternatively, a transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an organoaluminum compound; alternatively, a transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an organozinc compound; alternatively, a transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an organomagnesium compound; or alternatively, a transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an organolithium compound. Furthermore, more than one co-catalyst can be employed, e.g., an organoaluminum compound and an aluminoxane compound, an organoaluminum compound and an ionizing ionic compound, etc.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, a process for producing an alpha olefin polymerization product can comprise contacting a catalyst composition and an alpha olefin monomer comprising a C₄ to C₆₀ alpha olefin to produce the alpha olefin polymerization product. In this aspect, the process can be conducted at a temperature of greater than 10° C. (or in a range from 15° C. to 50° C.), the M_(w) of the polymerization product can be greater than about 2,000,000 g/mol (or in a range from about 2,500,000 to about 10,000,000 g/mol), and the catalyst composition can comprise an activator-support (e.g., fluorided alumina, chlorided alumina, bromided alumina, sulfated alumina, fluorided silica-alumina, chlorided silica-alumina, bromided silica-alumina, sulfated silica-alumina, fluorided silica-zirconia, chlorided silica-zirconia, bromided silica-zirconia, sulfated silica-zirconia, fluorided silica-titania, fluorided silica-coated alumina, sulfated silica-coated alumina, phosphated silica-coated alumina, and the like, or combinations thereof). The catalyst composition can comprise a transition metal compound, such as those having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), but not limited thereto. For instance, the catalyst composition can comprise an activator-support and a metallocene compound (e.g., a bridged metallocene compound, an unbridged metallocene compound, etc.).

In one aspect, the process for producing alpha olefin products according to this disclosure involves contacting at least one alpha olefin monomer with a catalyst system to form the alpha olefin product. The reactor effluent that is contained in the reactor following the process, which contains the alpha olefin product and typically some residual monomer (along with other components—e.g., catalyst system or catalyst system components), can be subjected to a separation process to remove some of the more volatile components from the reactor effluent, to provide a heavy oligomer product. The heavy oligomer product can then be subjected to hydrogenation to form a polyalphaolefin (PAO). In some non-limiting aspects, the reactor effluent can be treated with an agent to deactivate the system (a deactivation agent) before performing the separation. For example, the deactivation agent can comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of, water, an alcohol, or any combination thereof; alternatively, water; or alternatively, an alcohol.

In an aspect, the present disclosure relates to a process for producing an alpha olefin product comprising contacting a catalyst composition and an alpha olefin monomer comprising a C₄ to C₆₀ alpha olefin to produce the product, wherein the catalyst composition can comprise a transition metal compound having formula (Ia), (Ib), (IIa), (IIb), (IIIa), and/or (IIIb), an activator-support, and an optional co-catalyst. In another aspect, the process can further comprise a step of separating a reactor effluent comprising the alpha olefin product to provide a heavy oligomer product. In yet another aspect, the process can further comprise hydrogenating the heavy oligomer product to provide a polyalphaolefin. In some aspects, the alpha olefin product can be recovered; alternatively, the heavy oligomer product can be recovered; alternatively, the hydrogenated heavy oligomer product can be recovered; or alternatively, the polyalphaolefin can be recovered.

In an aspect, the alpha olefin monomer utilized in the disclosed processes can comprise, or consist essentially of, a C₆ to C₁₄ normal alpha olefin; alternatively, a C₆ normal alpha olefin, a C₈ normal alpha olefin, a C₁₀ normal alpha olefin, a C₁₂ normal alpha olefin, a C₁₄ normal alpha olefin, or any combination thereof; or alternatively, a C₈ normal alpha olefin, a C₁₀ normal alpha olefin, a C₁₂ normal alpha olefin, or any combination thereof. Other alpha olefin monomers are disclosed herein and can be utilized, without limitation, within the processes described herein.

In an aspect, the oligomerization/polymerization conditions utilized in the processes for producing an alpha olefin oligomer/polymer can comprise a reaction temperature in range from −20° C. to 150° C.; alternatively, from 0° C. to 140° C.; alternatively, from 0° C. to 125° C.; alternatively, from 5° C. to 100° C.; alternatively, from 5° C. to 90° C.; or alternatively, from 10° C. to 80° C. In another aspect, the reaction temperature can be in a range from 10° C. to 60° C., while in yet another aspect, the reaction temperature can be in a range from 15° C. to 50° C., or from 15° C. to 30° C.

In an aspect, the disclosed processes for producing an alpha olefin product can be conducted in an inert atmosphere. In one aspect, an inert atmosphere is an atmosphere substantially free of oxygen; alternatively, substantially free of water when the reaction begins; or alternatively, substantially free of oxygen and substantially free of water when the reaction begins. In another aspect, the amount of water can be less than 100 ppm; alternatively, less than 75 ppm; alternatively, less than 50 ppm; alternatively, less than 30 ppm; alternatively, less than 25 ppm; alternatively, less than 20 ppm; alternatively, less than 15 ppm; alternatively, less than 10 ppm; alternatively, less than 5 ppm; alternatively, less than 3 ppm; alternatively, less than 2 ppm; alternatively, less than 1 ppm; or alternatively, less than 0.5 ppm. In yet another aspect, the amount of oxygen can be less than 100 ppm; alternatively, less than 75 ppm; alternatively, less than 50 ppm; alternatively, less than 30 ppm; alternatively, less than 25 ppm; alternatively, less than 20 ppm; alternatively, less than 15 ppm; alternatively, less than 10 ppm; alternatively, less than 5 ppm; alternatively, less than 3 ppm; alternatively, less than 2 ppm; alternatively, less than 1 ppm; or alternatively, less than 0.5 ppm. In still another aspect, the inert atmosphere can be dry nitrogen, or alternatively, dry argon.

In an aspect, the disclosed processes for producing an alpha olefin product can be conducted in the substantial absence of ethylene. For example, the process can be conducted with a partial pressure of ethylene of less than 10 psig; alternatively, less than 7 psig; alternatively, less than 5 psig; alternatively, less than 4 psig; alternatively, less than 3 psig; alternatively, less than 2 psig; or alternatively, less than 1 psig.

In an aspect, the disclosed processes for producing an alpha olefin product can be conducted in the substantial absence of hydrogen. This can include, but is not limited to, a partial pressure of hydrogen of less than 10 psig; alternatively, less than 7 psig; alternatively, less than 5 psig; alternatively, less than 4 psig; alternatively, less than 3 psig; alternatively, less than 2 psig; or alternatively, less than 1 psig.

However, in some aspects, the oligomerization/polymerization can be conducted in the presence of hydrogen. In these aspects, the hydrogen partial pressure can be any pressure of hydrogen that does not adversely affect the oligomerization/polymerization reaction. While not intending to be bound by theory, hydrogen can be used control the molecular weight of the product. In one aspect, the partial pressure of hydrogen during oligomerization/polymerization is greater than or equal to 5 psig; alternatively, greater than or equal to 10 psig; alternatively, greater than or equal to 50 psig; alternatively, greater than or equal to 100 psig; alternatively, greater than or equal to 200 psig; alternatively, greater than or equal to 300 psig; alternatively, greater than or equal to 400 psig; alternatively, greater than or equal to 500 psig; alternatively, greater than or equal to 750 psig; alternatively, greater than or equal to 1000 psig; alternatively, greater than or equal to 1250 psig; or alternatively, greater than or equal to 1500 psig. In another aspect, the partial pressure of hydrogen can be in a range from 0 psig to 2000 psig; alternatively, from 1 psig to 1500 psig; alternatively, from 5 psig to 1250 psig; alternatively, from 10 psig to 1000 psig; alternatively, from 50 psig to 750 psig; alternatively, from 100 psig to 500 psig; alternatively, from 150 psig to 400 psig; or alternatively, from 200 psig to 300 psig.

In accordance with a further aspect of this disclosure, the yield of the alpha olefin product is at least 25 weight % (i.e., 25 weight % of the alpha olefin monomer has been converted to the alpha olefin oligomer/polymer); alternatively, at least 30 weight %; alternatively, at least 35 weight %; alternatively, at least 40 weight %; alternatively, at least 45 weight %; alternatively, at least 50 weight %; or alternatively, at least 55 weight %. Such yields can be achieved at a reaction temperature in a range from 15° C. to 30° C. (e.g., approximately 25° C.), and a reaction time in a range from 12 to 36 hours (e.g., 24 hours). Additionally, these yields can be achieved at an alpha olefin monomer:transition metal compound weight ratio of greater than 1500:1, greater than 1750:1, or greater than 2000:1.

In an aspect, the separation process or system utilized to remove at least a portion of the monomer, dimer, and/or trimer from a (polymerization or oligomerization) reactor effluent to form a heavy oligomer product can be any separation process or system capable of separating at least a portion of the monomer, dimer, and/or trimer from the reactor effluent. In a non-limiting aspect, the separation process can comprise distillation. In another aspect, the separation can comprise wiped film evaporation. In some aspects, the distillation or wiped film evaporation can be performed at a pressure less than 760 torr; alternatively, less than 600 torr; alternatively, less than 400 torr; alternatively, less than 200 torr; alternatively, less than 100 torr; alternatively, less than 75 torr; alternatively, less than 50 torr; alternatively, less than 40 torr; alternatively, less than 30 torr; alternatively, less than 20 torr; alternatively, less 10 torr; alternatively, less than 5 torr; or alternatively, less than 1 torr. Moreover, the distillation or wiped film evaporation can be performed by sparging a gas through the distillation equipment or wiped film evaporator. In some aspects, the sparging gas can be an inert gas, such as nitrogen, helium, argon, or combinations thereof; alternatively, nitrogen; alternatively, helium, or alternatively argon.

The processes for producing an alpha olefin product (and optionally, separating a reactor effluent comprising the alpha olefin product to provide a heavy oligomer product, and hydrogenating the heavy oligomer product to provide a polyalphaolefin) can be carried out in the absence of a diluent; or alternatively, can be performed using a diluent, or solvent. Solvents which can be utilized in theses processes can include, but are not limited to, aliphatic hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons, halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons, halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons, and combinations thereof; alternatively, aliphatic hydrocarbons; alternatively, aromatic hydrocarbons; alternatively, halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons; or alternatively, halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. Aliphatic hydrocarbons which can be useful as a solvent include C₃ to C₂₀ aliphatic hydrocarbons; alternatively, C₃ to C₁₅ aliphatic hydrocarbons; or alternatively, C₄ to C₁₀ aliphatic hydrocarbons. The aliphatic hydrocarbons can be cyclic or acyclic and/or can be linear or branched, unless otherwise specified. Non-limiting examples of suitable acyclic aliphatic hydrocarbon solvents that can be utilized singly or in any combination include propane, iso-butane, butane, pentane (n-pentane or mixture of linear and branched C₅ acyclic aliphatic hydrocarbons), hexane (n-hexane or mixture of linear and branched C₆ acyclic aliphatic hydrocarbons), heptane (n-heptane or mixture of linear and branched C₇ acyclic aliphatic hydrocarbons), octane, and combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of suitable cyclic aliphatic hydrocarbon solvents include cyclohexane and methyl cyclohexane. Aromatic hydrocarbons which can be useful as a solvent include C₆ to C₂₀ aromatic hydrocarbons, or alternatively, C₆ to C₁₀ aromatic hydrocarbons. Non-limiting examples of suitable aromatic hydrocarbons that can be utilized singly or in any combination include benzene, toluene, xylene (including ortho-xylene, meta-xylene, para-xylene, or mixtures thereof), and ethylbenzene, or combinations thereof. Halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons which can be useful as a solvent include C₁ to C₁₅ halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons; alternatively, C₁ to C₁₀ halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons; or alternatively, C₁ to C₅ halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons. The halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons can be cyclic or acyclic and/or can be linear or branched, unless otherwise specified. Non-limiting examples of suitable halogenated aliphatic hydrocarbons which can be utilized singly of in any combination include methylene chloride, carbon tetrachloride, dichloroethane, trichloroethane, and combinations thereof. Halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons which can be useful as a solvent include C₆ to C₂₀ halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons, or alternatively, C₆ to C₁₀ halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. Non-limiting examples of suitable halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons that can be utilized singly or in any combination include chlorobenzene, dichlorobenzene, and combinations thereof.

Alpha olefin polymerization/oligomerization according to this disclosure can be carried out in any manner known in the art suitable for the specific alpha olefin monomer(s) employed in the process. For example, processes can include, but are not limited to slurry processes, solution processes, and the like, including multi-reactor combinations thereof. For example, a stirred reactor can be utilized for a batch process, or the reaction can be carried out continuously in a loop reactor or in a continuous stirred reactor. Slurry processes (also known as the particle form process) are well known in the art and are disclosed, for example in U.S. Pat. No. 3,248,179, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Other contemplated methods of the present disclosure for slurry processes are those employing a loop reactor of the type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,248,179, and those utilized in a plurality of stirred reactors either in series, parallel, or combinations thereof, wherein the reaction conditions are different in the different reactors

Polymerization/oligomerization reactors and reactor systems can include any polymerization/oligomerization reactor or reactor system known in the art that is capable of polymerizing/oligomerizing an alpha olefin monomer to produce an alpha olefin polymer/oligomer product according to the present disclosure. Such systems can comprise at least one raw material feed system, at least one feed system for the catalyst system or catalyst system components, at least one reactor system, at least one product recovery system, or any suitable combination thereof. Suitable reactors for the present disclosure can further comprise any one, or combination of, a catalyst system storage system, catalyst system component storage system, a cooling system, a diluent or solvent recycling system, a monomer recycling system, or a control system. Such reactors can comprise continuous take-off and direct recycling of catalyst, diluent, monomer, and alpha olefin product. Generally, continuous processes can comprise the continuous introduction of an alpha olefin monomer, a catalyst composition, and a diluent into a reactor and the continuous removal from this reactor of a suspension comprising alpha olefin product, catalyst composition, and the diluent or solvent(s).

Reactor systems of the present disclosure can comprise one type of reactor per system or multiple reactor systems comprising two or more types of reactors operated in parallel or in series. Multiple reactor systems can comprise reactors connected together to perform the reaction, or reactors that are not connected. The alpha olefin monomer can be polymerized/oligomerized in one reactor under one set of conditions, and then this material comprising an alpha olefin intermediate polymer/oligomer (and potentially the catalyst system and/or unreacted alpha olefin monomer of this first reactor) can be transferred to a second reactor for polymerization/oligomerization under a different set of conditions.

In one aspect of the disclosure, the reactor system can comprise at least one loop reactor. Such reactors are known in the art and can comprise vertical or horizontal loops. Such loops can comprise a single loop or a series of loops. Multiple loop reactors can comprise both vertical and horizontal loops. The process can be performed using the alpha olefin monomer as the liquid carrier, or in the presence of an organic diluent or solvent that can disperse and/or carry the catalyst system components and/or catalyst system. An organic solvent can also be utilized to reduce the viscosity of the reaction mixture (including the alpha olefin product) and allow the reaction mixture to easily flow or be pumped through the process equipment. Suitable solvents are disclosed herein. Monomer(s), solvent, catalyst system components and/or catalyst system, can be continuously fed to a loop reactor where polymerization/oligomerization occurs.

In still another aspect of the disclosure, the reactor system can comprise a tubular reactor. Tubular reactors can have several zones where fresh monomer, the catalyst system, and/or catalyst system components (and/or other components of the reaction, e.g., hydrogen) are added. Monomer can be introduced at one zone of the reactor while the catalyst system, and/or catalyst components (and/or other components of the reaction, e.g., hydrogen) can be introduced at another zone of the reactor. Heat and pressure can be employed appropriately to obtain optimal reaction conditions.

In another aspect of the disclosure, the reactor system can comprise a solution reactor. In a solution process, the alpha olefin monomer can be contacted with the catalyst system and/or catalyst system components by suitable stirring or other means. A carrier comprising an inert organic diluent (if employed) or excess monomer can be employed. If desired, the monomer can be brought in the vapor phase into contact with the catalytic reaction product, in the presence or absence of liquid material. The reaction zone is maintained at temperatures and pressures that will result in the formation of a solution of the alpha olefin product in a reaction medium. Agitation can be employed during the reaction to obtain better temperature control and to maintain uniform reaction component mixtures throughout the reaction zone. Adequate means are utilized for dissipating the exothermic heat of polymerization/oligomerization. The process can be performed in a batch manner or in a continuous manner. The reactor can comprise a series of at least one separator that employs high pressure and/or low pressure to separate the desired alpha olefin product.

In a further aspect of the disclosure, the reactor system can comprise the combination of two or more reactors. Production of alpha olefin products in multiple reactors can include several stages in at least two separate reactors interconnected by a transfer device making it possible to transfer an intermediate product resulting from the first reactor into the second reactor. The desired reaction conditions in one of the reactors can be different from the operating conditions of the other reactors. Alternatively, a multiple reactor system can include the manual transfer of an intermediate product from one reactor to subsequent reactors for continued polymerization/oligomerization. Such reactors can include, but not limited to, any combination of one or more loop reactors, one or more tubular reactors, one or more solution reactors, one or more stirred tank reactors, or one or more autoclave reactors.

In an aspect, the process can include a separation step or multiple separation steps to remove or at least a portion of unreacted monomer, dimer, and/or trimers. In an aspect, the separation step(s) are operated to reduce the amount of monomer, dimer, and/or trimer found in the reactor effluent and/or alpha olefin product. Desirable monomer, dimer, and/or trimer contents are described herein and can be utilized without limitation to further describe the separation step(s). The separation step(s) can also be utilized to remove the diluent or solvent, if utilized, from the alpha olefin product.

In some aspects, suitable additives and modifiers can be added to the alpha olefin oligomer product and/or the subsequent polyalphaolefin in order to provide desired end-use properties or effects.

EXAMPLES

The invention is further illustrated by the following examples, which are not to be construed in any way as imposing limitations to the scope of this invention. Various other aspects, embodiments, modifications, and equivalents thereof which, after reading the description herein, may suggest themselves to one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit of the present invention or the scope of the appended claims.

Unless otherwise noted, all operations were performed under purified nitrogen or vacuum using standard Schlenk or glovebox techniques. Et₂O, THF, and N,N-dimethylformamide were obtained as anhydrous from Sigma-Aldrich and used as received. Pentane, hexanes, heptanes, and toluene (obtained from Fischer Scientific) were degassed and stored over activated 13× molecular sieves under nitrogen. 1 M triisobutylaluminum (TIBA) in hexanes, 10% MAO in toluene, 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, lithium hydroxide hydrate, paraformaldehyde, thionyl chloride, allyl amine, 3-butenylamine, and formaldehyde were obtained from Sigma-Aldrich and used as received. (B(C₆F₅)₃) and [Ph₃C][B(C₆F₅)₄] were obtained from Boulder Scientific Company, and ZrBn₄ and HfBn₄ were obtained from Strem Chemicals, Inc. C₆D₆ and d₁₂-cyclohexane (obtained from Cambridge Isotope Laboratories, Inc.) were degassed and dried over 13× molecular sieves under nitrogen. CDCl₃ (obtained from Cambridge Isotope Laboratories, Inc.) was used as received. 2-phenol-3,5-di-tert-butylbenzyl alcohol, NMe₂, OMe, TM-3, TM-A, and TM-C were prepared according to suitable synthesis procedures. The amine bis(phenolate) transition metal compounds TM-3, TM-A, and TM-C were prepared generally as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,333,423 and 6,596,827, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Chemical shifts (δ) for ¹H NMR spectra are given relative to residual protium in the deuterated solvent at 7.27 and 7.16 for C₆D₆ and CDCl₃, respectively.

Approximately 20% MAO on SiO₂ was prepared as follows. 17 grams of Grade 952 SiO₂ from W.R. Grace & Company were charged to a 500-mL round-bottomed flask equipped with stirbar. A 10% MAO solution in toluene (57 mL) was added, resulting in a yellowish slurry. Pentane (500 mL) was added to the slurry and the solution was cooled to −20° C. overnight. The suspension was filtered and dried in vacuo.

Fluorided silica-alumina activator-supports were prepared as follows. A silica-alumina was obtained from W.R. Grace & Company containing about 13% alumina by weight and having a surface area of about 400 m²/g and a pore volume of about 1.2 mL/g. This material was obtained as a powder having an average particle size of about 70 microns. Approximately 100 grams of this material were impregnated with a solution containing about 200 mL of water and about 10 grams of ammonium hydrogen fluoride, resulting in a damp powder having the consistency of wet sand. This mixture was then placed in a flat pan and allowed to dry under vacuum at approximately 110° C. for about 16 hours. To calcine the support, about 10 grams of this powdered mixture were placed in a 1.75-inch quartz tube fitted with a sintered quartz disk at the bottom. While the powder was supported on the disk, air (nitrogen can be substituted) dried by passing through a 13× molecular sieve column, was blown upward through the disk at the linear rate of about 1.6 to 1.8 standard cubic feet per hour. An electric furnace around the quartz tube was then turned on and the temperature was raised at the rate of about 400° C. per hour to the desired calcining temperature of about 450° C. At this temperature, the powder was allowed to fluidize for about three hours in the dry air. Afterward, the fluorided silica-alumina (abbreviated “AS3” in the tables that follow) was collected and stored under dry nitrogen, and was used without exposure to the atmosphere.

Fluorided silica-coated alumina activator-supports were prepared as follows. A silica-coated alumina was obtained from Sasol Company under the Siral® 28M designation. Approximately 65 g of ammonium bifluoride were dissolved in 2.3 L of methanol, and this methanol solution was added to 650 g of Siral® 28M in a 4-L beaker while stirring. This wet mixture was then allowed to dry under vacuum at approximately 100° C. for about 16 hours. To calcine the resultant powdered mixture, a portion of the material was fluidized in a stream of dry nitrogen at about 600° C. for about 3 hours. Afterward, the fluorided silica-coated alumina (abbreviated “AS2” in the tables that follow) was collected and stored under dry nitrogen, and was used without exposure to the atmosphere.

Sulfated alumina activator-supports were prepared as follows. Bohemite was obtained from W.R. Grace & Company under the designation “Alumina A” and having a surface area of about 300 m²/g and a pore volume of about 1.3 mL/g. This material was obtained as a powder having an average particle size of about 100 microns. This material was impregnated to incipient wetness with an aqueous solution of ammonium sulfate to equal about 15% sulfate. This mixture was then placed in a flat pan and allowed to dry under vacuum at approximately 110° C. for about 16 hours. To calcine the resultant powdered mixture, the material was fluidized in a stream of dry air at about 550° C. for about 6 hours. Afterward, the sulfated alumina (abbreviated “AS1” in the tables that follow) was collected and stored under dry nitrogen, and was used without exposure to the atmosphere.

Molecular weights and molecular weight distributions were obtained using a PL-220 high temperature GPC/SEC unit (Polymer Laboratories, now an Agilent Company) with 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene (TCB) as the solvent, with a flow rate of 1 mL/min at a column temperature of 145° C. 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol (BHT) at a concentration of 0.5 g/L was added to TCB as a stabilizer. An injection volume of 400 μL was used with a nominal polymer concentration of 1.5 mg/mL. Dissolution of the sample in stabilized TCB was carried out by heating at 150° C. for 5 hours or longer, depending on sample, with occasional, gentle agitation. Three Waters 7.8 mm×300 mm Styragel HMW-6E columns were used. The columns were calibrated with the broad calibration method using a broad linear polyethylene standard (Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP Marlex® BHB 5003) whose molecular weight and molecular weight distribution had been determined independently. M_(n) is the number-average molecular weight (g/mol); M_(w) is the weight-average molecular weight (g/mol); M_(z) is the z-average molecular weight (g/mol); and PDI is the polydispersity index, the ratio of M_(w)/M_(n). The Mark-Houwink constants, K and a, used for alpha olefin oligomer products were 5.19E-5 dL/g and 0.77, respectively.

Example 1 Synthesis of 2-phenol-3,5-di-tert-butylbenzyl chloride

Approximately 20 mL of methylene chloride were added to 2-phenol-3,5-di-tert-butylbenzyl alcohol (3.55 g, 15 mmol) in a 100 mL round-bottomed flask equipped with a stirbar. Thionyl chloride (1.28 ml, 17.5 mmol) was added dropwise to the flask, yielding a yellow solution which was stirred for 30 min. While stirring, a small amount of solid formed and was filtered off. Evacuation of the volatiles produced 2-phenol-3,5-di-tert-butylbenzyl chloride as a pale yellow solid. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.36 (d, J=3.2 Hz, 1H), δ 7.10 (d, J=3.2 Hz, 1H), δ 5.41 (s, J=1.5, 1H, OH), δ 4.73 (s, 2H), δ 1.47 (s, 9H), δ 1.34 (s, 9H).

Examples 2-6 Synthesis of N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine Compounds TM-1 and TM-2

A representative general synthesis scheme for compounds TM-1 and TM-2 is illustrated below:

Ligand 1 was produced in Example 2. Approximately 25 mL of N,N-dimethylformamide were added to 2-phenol-3,5-di-tert-butylbenzyl chloride (1.0 g, 3.9 mmol) in a 100 mL round-bottomed flask equipped with a stirbar. Under nitrogen flow, allylamine (0.15 mL, 2 mmol) and K₂CO₃ (1.62 g, 11.8 mmol) were added to the flask, and the resulting suspension was stirred at ambient temperature for 72 hr. The reaction mixture was partitioned between 50 mL of a 1:1 NH₄Cl(sat):water mixture and Et₂O (75 mL). The organics were separated and washed with water (2×50 mL) and brine (25 mL). The volatiles were evacuated leaving a colorless residue. The colorless crystals were isolated from a saturated MeCN solution of Ligand 1 at −30° C. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.80 (s, 2H, OH), δ 7.25 (s, 2H), δ 6.94 (s, 1H), δ 6.01 (mult, 1H), δ 5.34 (m, 2H), δ 3.72 (s, 4H), δ 3.19 (d, J=6.3 Hz, 2H), δ 1.45 (s, 18H), δ 1.32 (s, 18H).

Ligand 1 was produced via an alternative procedure in Example 3. Approximately 10 mL of MeOH were added to 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol (5 g, 24.2 mmol) in a 50 mL round-bottomed flask equipped with a stirbar. Formaldehyde (3 mL, 36 mmol) was added to the flask, then allylamine (0.91 mL, 12.1 mmol) by syringe. The resultant yellow solution was heated to reflux for 72 hr. Next, the reaction mixture was cooled to ambient temperature, then to −30° C. for several hours. The biphasic solution was decanted, and a thick oil was crystallized from a saturated MeCN solution at −30° C., resulting in Ligand 1.

Ligand 2 was produced in Example 4. Approximately 75 mL of N,N-dimethylformamide were added to 2-phenol-3,5-di-tert-butylbenzyl chloride (3 g, 3.9 mmol) and 3-butenylamine (0.633 g, 5.89 mmol) in a 200 mL round-bottomed flask equipped with a stirbar. Under nitrogen flow, K₂CO₃ (5.7 g, 41.2 mmol) was added to the flask, and the resulting suspension was stirred at ambient temperature for 72 hr. The reaction mixture was partitioned between 150 mL of a 1:1 NH₄Cl(sat):water mixture and Et₂O (150 mL). The volatiles were evacuated leaving a pale yellow residue. The pale yellow crystals were isolated from a saturated MeCN solution of Ligand 2 at −30° C. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃): δ 7.69 (s, 2H, OH), δ 7.23 (d, J=2.1 Hz, 2H), δ 6.93 (d, J=2.1 Hz, 2H), δ 5.75 (mult, 1H), δ 5.14 (m, 2H), δ 3.68 (s, 4H), δ 2.66 (t, J=6.6 Hz, 2H), δ 2.42 (q, J=6.6 Hz, 2H), δ 1.44 (s, 18H), δ 1.31 (s, 18H).

Compound TM-1 was produced in Example 5. ZrBn₄ (0.4 g, 0.81 mmol) and Ligand 1 (0.369 g, 0.81 mmol) were dissolved in 10 mL of PhMe. The solution was heated to 65° C. for 2 hr. The volatiles were removed, leaving a colorless solid which was crystallized from a saturated pentane solution at −30° C., resulting in TM-1 and colorless crystals. ¹H NMR(C₆D₆): δ 7.76 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 2H), δ 7.60 (d, J=2.4 Hz, 2H), δ 7.28 (t, J=7.5 Hz, 2H), δ 7.1 (t, 1H), δ 6.93 (d, J=2.1 Hz, 2H), δ 6.90 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 2H), δ 6.73 (t, J=7.2 Hz, 2H), δ 6.61 (t, J=7.2 Hz, 1H), δ 5.33 (mult, 1H), δ 4.87 (dd, J=2.1, 10.2 Hz, 2H), δ 4.65 (dd, J=1.5, 16.8 Hz, 2H), δ 3.32 (d, J=13.8 Hz, 2H), δ 2.94 (d, J=13.8 Hz, 2H), δ 2.94 (s, 2H, ZrCH₂Ph), δ 2.72 (d, J=7.2 Hz, 2H), δ 1.98 (s, 2H, ZrCH₂Ph), δ 1.83 (s, 18H), δ 1.38 (s, 18H).

Compound TM-2 was produced in Example 6. ZrBn₄ (0.305 g, 0.6 mmol) and Ligand 2 (0.273 g, 0.6 mmol) were dissolved in 10 mL of PhMe. The solution was heated to 65° C. for 2 hr. The volatiles were removed, leaving a colorless solid which was crystallized from a saturated pentane solution at −30° C., resulting in TM-2 and colorless crystals. FIG. 3 illustrates the ¹H-NMR analysis of TM-2. ¹H NMR (C₆D₆): δ 7.77 (d, J=8.4 Hz, 2H), δ 7.59 (d, J=2.4 Hz, 2H), δ 7.30 (t, J=7.5 Hz, 2H), δ 7.14 (t, J=7.2 Hz, 1H), δ 6.98 (d, J=2.4 Hz, 2H), δ 6.93 (d, J=6.9 Hz, 2H), δ 6.75 (t, J=7.5 Hz, 2H), δ 6.63 (t, J=7.5 Hz, 1H), δ 4.7-4.8 (mult, 1H), δ 4.5-4.6 (mult, 2H), δ 3.36 (d, J=14.1 Hz, 2H), δ 3.02 (d, J=13.8 Hz, 2H), δ 3.01 (s, 2H, ZrCH₂Ph), δ 2.21 (t, J=7.8 Hz, 2H), δ 1.96 (s, 2H, ZrCH₂Ph), δ 1.86 (q, J=6.6 Hz, 2H), δ 1.80 (s, 18H), δ 1.40 (s, 18H).

Examples 7-8 Synthesis of Hafnium Analogs of Compounds TM-1 and TM-2

The hafnium analog of compound TM-1 was produced in Example 7. HfBn₄ (0.11 g, 0.203 mmol) and Ligand 1 (0.1 g, 0.203 mmol) were dissolved in 4 mL of PhMe. The solution was allowed to stand at ambient temperature overnight. The volatiles were removed, resulting in a pale yellow solid of the hafnium analog of TM-1. ¹H NMR (C₆D₆): δ 7.70 (d, J=7.2 Hz, 2H), δ 7.66 (d, J=2.4 Hz, 2H), δ 7.20 (t, J=7.6 Hz, 2H), δ 7.05 (t, 7.6 Hz, 1H), δ 7.0 (d, 2H), δ 6.90 (d, J=2.4 Hz, 2H), δ 6.72 (t, J=7.6 Hz, 2H), δ 6.59 (t, J=7.6 Hz, 1H), δ 5.20 (mult, 1H), δ 4.82 (dd, J=1.6, 10 Hz, 2H), δ 4.64 (dd, J=1.6, 17.2 Hz, 2H), δ 3.18 (d, J=14 Hz, 2H), δ 2.85 (d, J=14 Hz, 2H), δ 2.76 (s, 2H, HfCH₂Ph), δ 2.47 (d, J=7.6 Hz, 2H), δ 2.24 (s, 2H, HfCH₂Ph), δ 1.80 (s, 18H), δ 1.35 (s, 18H).

The hafnium analog of compound TM-2 was produced in Example 8. HfBn₄ (0.107 g, 0.197 mmol) and Ligand 2 (0.1 g, 0.197 mmol) were dissolved in 4 mL of PhMe. The solution was allowed to stand at ambient temperature overnight. The volatiles were removed, resulting in a pale yellow gummy solid of the hafnium analog of TM-2 with impurities.

Examples 9-53 Alpha-Olefin Polymerization Experiments Using N,N-Bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine Compounds

Polymerization experiments were conducted as follows. For catalyst compositions containing MAO or the organoboron compound, the catalyst components were charged to a vial equipped with a stirbar. At room temperature of approximately 25° C., the α-olefin (e.g., 1-hexene, 1-octene) was added while stirring, and the reaction was monitored visually (refluxing and/or viscosity changes). For catalyst compositions containing an activator-support, the transition metal amine compound and the activator-support were charged to a vial equipped with a stirbar. TIBA was added while stirring, followed by the α-olefin at the set temperature. For the reactions at elevated temperatures, the vial was maintained at the respective elevated temperature.

Table I summarizes certain reaction conditions, yields, and molecular weights (residual monomer was excluded) for Examples 9-24, which employed catalyst compositions containing either an aluminoxane or a fluorinated organoboron compound. Generally, such catalyst compositions also containing TM-1, TM-2, or TM-3 (with alkyl or alkenyl groups on the N atom) required long reaction times and exhibited poor yields. Conversely, the catalyst compositions containing TM-A or TM-C (with heteroatom groups on the N atom) required a short reaction time and resulted in quantitative yield. Of the catalyst compositions containing TM-1, TM-2, or TM-3, those with the propenyl substituent on the N atom generally had the higher catalyst activity.

Table II summarizes certain reaction conditions, yields, and molecular weights (residual monomer was excluded) for Examples 25-45, which employed catalyst compositions containing an activator-support and an organoaluminum compound. Unexpectedly, such catalyst compositions also containing TM-1, TM-2, or TM-3 (with alkyl or alkenyl groups on the N atom) produced ultrahigh molecular weight polymers, with M_(w)'s in excess of 1,000,000 g/mol, and generally at improved yields. Additionally, the catalyst compositions containing TM-A or TM-C (with heteroatom groups on the N atom) produced low molecular weight polymers over a wide range of reaction temperatures; M_(w)'s were in the 6,000 to 21,000 range, significantly lower than the M_(w)'s produced using TM-A or TM-C and either an aluminoxane or a fluorinated organoboron compound (see Table I) under analogous reaction conditions.

Table III summarizes certain reaction conditions, yields, and molecular weights (residual monomer was excluded) for Examples 37-39 and 46-53. Examples 37-39 and 46-51 employed catalyst compositions containing an activator-support, an organoaluminum compound, and TM-1, TM-2, or TM-3 (with alkyl or alkenyl groups on the N atom). Regardless of the α-olefin reactant—1-hexene, 1-octene, or 1-decene—an ultrahigh molecular weight polymer unexpectedly was produced, most with M_(w)'s in excess of 4,000,000 g/mol. FIG. 4 illustrates the molecular weight distributions of the polymers of Examples 37-39. In Examples 52-53, a Ziegler-based catalyst system (commercially available as Lynx 200) was used, but resulted in polymers of much lower molecular weights when compared with the polymers produced by catalyst compositions containing an activator-support.

TABLE I Summary of Examples 9-24. Yield M_(w)/1000 Example Catalyst Composition α-olefin (%) Reaction Time (g/mol)  9 3 mg TM-A/10 mg [Ph₃C][B(C₆F₅)₄] 8 mL 1-hexene Quant. 5 min 163 10 3 mg TM-C/10 mg [Ph₃C][B(C₆F₅)₄] 8 mL 1-hexene Quant. 10 min 60 11 3 mg TM-C/6 mg B(C₆F₅)₃ 8 mL 1-hexene Quant. 30 min 125 12 3 mg TM-3/10 mg [Ph₃C][B(C₆F₅)₄] 8 mL 1-hexene 13 24 hr 1 13 3 mg TM-1/10 mg [Ph₃C][B(C₆F₅)₄] 8 mL 1-hexene 46 24 hr 2 14 3 mg TM-2/10 mg [Ph₃C][B(C₆F₅)₄] 8 mL 1-hexene <5 24 hr — 15 3 mg TM-A/300 mg ~20% MAO on Silica 8 mL 1-hexene Quant. 10 min 120 16 3 mg TM-C/300 mg ~20% MAO on Silica 8 mL 1-hexene Quant. 5 min 92 17 3 mg TM-A/300 mg ~20% MAO on Silica 8 mL 1-octene Quant. 10 min 139 18 3 mg TM-C/300 mg ~20% MAO on Silica 8 mL 1-octene Quant. 5 min 117 19 3 mg TM-3/300 mg ~20% MAO on Silica 8 mL 1-hexene <5 24 hr — 20 3 mg TM-1/300 mg ~20% MAO on Silica 8 mL 1-hexene <5 24 hr — 21 3 mg TM-2/300 mg ~20% MAO on Silica 8 mL 1-hexene <5 24 hr — 22 3 mg TM-3/0.5 mL 10% MAO in PhMe 6 mL 1-hexene <5 24 hr 6 23 3 mg TM-1/0.5 mL 10% MAO in PhMe 6 mL 1-hexene 31 24 hr 7 24 3 mg TM-2/0.5 mL 10% MAO in PhMe 6 mL 1-hexene <5 24 hr 10

TABLE II Summary of Examples 25-45. Yield Temperature Reaction M_(w)/1000 Example Catalyst Composition α-olefin (%) (° C.) Time (g/mol) 25 3 mg TM-A/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 19 25 24 hr 7 26 3 mg TM-C/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 93 25 24 hr 13 27 3 mg TM-A/0.1 g AS2/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 85 25 24 hr 14 28 3 mg TM-C/0.1 g AS2/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 96 25 24 hr 13 29 3 mg TM-A/0.1 g AS3/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 70 25 24 hr 19 30 3 mg TM-C/0.1 g AS3/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 96 25 24 hr 21 31 3 mg TM-C/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-octene 98 60 24 hr 10 32 3 mg TM-C/0.1 g AS2/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-octene 98 60 24 hr 13 33 3 mg TM-C/0.1 g AS3/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-octene 96 60 24 hr 20 34 3 mg TM-C/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-octene 91 90 24 hr 6 35 3 mg TM-C/0.1 g AS2/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-octene 94 90 24 hr 10 36 3 mg TM-C/0.1 g AS3/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-octene 89 90 24 hr 14 37 3 mg TM-3/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 81 25 24 hr 4,586 38 3 mg TM-1/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 19 25 24 hr 4,471 39 3 mg TM-2/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 41 25 24 hr 4,438 40 3 mg TM-3/0.1 g AS2/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 91 25 24 hr 758 41 3 mg TM-1/0.1 g AS2/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 69 25 24 hr 3,131 42 3 mg TM-2/0.1 g AS2/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 6 25 24 hr 4,284 43 3 mg TM-3/0.1 g AS3/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 13 25 24 hr 1,590 44 3 mg TM-1/0.1 g AS3/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene <5 25 24 hr 2,641 45 3 mg TM-2/0.1 g AS3/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene <5 25 24 hr 2,927

TABLE III Summary of Examples 37-39 and 46-53. Yield M_(w)/1000 Example Catalyst Composition α-olefin (%) Reaction Time (g/mol) 37 3 mg TM-3/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 81 24 hr 4,586 38 3 mg TM-1/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 19 24 hr 4,471 39 3 mg TM-2/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 41 24 hr 4,438 46 3 mg TM-3/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-octene 93 24 hr 4,237 47 3 mg TM-1/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-octene 28 24 hr 4,355 48 3 mg TM-2/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-octene 46 24 hr 4,253 49 3 mg TM-3/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-decene 83 24 hr 3,909 50 3 mg TM-1/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-decene 34 24 hr 4,579 51 3 mg TM-2/0.1 g AS1/0.5 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-decene 47 24 hr 4,354 52 3 mg Lynx 200/0.25 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-hexene 93  3 hr 687 53 3 mg Lynx 200/0.25 mL 1M TIBA 8 mL 1-decene 90 24 hr 1,736 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A catalyst composition comprising: (i) an N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound having formula (IIa):

wherein: M is Ti, Zr, or Hf; X¹ and X² independently are a monoanionic ligand; each R^(B) and R^(C) independently is a halide, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group, wherein p and q independently are 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4; and L is a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylene group; and D is a chemical group comprising at least one of nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur; (ii) an activator-support comprising a solid oxide treated with an electron-withdrawing anion; and (iii) optionally, a co-catalyst.
 2. The catalyst composition of claim 1, wherein: M is Zr or Hf; X¹ and X² independently are H, BH₄, a halide, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylaminyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylaminylsilyl group, OBR¹ ₂, or OSO₂R¹, wherein R¹ is a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group; and each R^(B) and R^(C) independently is Cl, CF₃, a methyl group, an ethyl group, a propyl group, a butyl group, a pentyl group, a hexyl group, a heptyl group, an octyl group, a nonyl group, a decyl group, an ethenyl group, a propenyl group, a butenyl group, a pentenyl group, a hexenyl group, a heptenyl group, an octenyl group, a nonenyl group, a decenyl group, a phenyl group, a tolyl group, a benzyl group, a naphthyl group, a trimethylsilyl group, a triisopropylsilyl group, a triphenylsilyl group, or an allyldimethylsilyl group.
 3. The catalyst composition of claim 1, wherein D is a dialkylaminyl group, a dicycloalkylaminyl group, a di(substituted cycloalkyl)aminyl group, an N-(alkyl)-N-(cycloalkyl)aminyl group, an N-(alkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)aminyl group, an N-(cycloalkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)aminyl group, a diarylaminyl group, a di(substituted aryl)aminyl group, an N-aryl N-(substituted aryl)aminyl group, an N-alkyl N-arylaminyl group, an N-alkyl N-(substituted aryl)aminyl group, a dialkylphosphinyl group, a dicycloalkylphosphinyl group, a di(substituted cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group), an N (alkyl)-N-(cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group, an N-(alkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group, an N-(cycloalkyl)-N-(substituted cycloalkyl)phosphinyl group, a diarylphosphinyl group, a di(substituted aryl)phosphinyl group, a P-aryl P-(substituted aryl)phosphinyl group, a P-alkyl P-arylphosphinyl group, a P-alkyl P-(substituted aryl)phosphinyl group, an alkoxy group, an aryloxy group, a substituted aryloxy group, an alkylsulfidyl group, an arylsulfidyl group, a substituted arylsulfidyl group, a furanyl group, a substituted furanyl group, a thienyl group, a substituted thienyl group, a tetrahydrofuranyl group, a substituted tetrahydrofuranyl group, a thiophanyl group, a substituted thiophanyl group, a pyridinyl group, a substituted pyridinyl group, a morphilinyl group, a substituted morphilinyl group, a pyranyl group, a substituted pyranyl group, a tetrahydropyranyl group, a substituted tetrahydropyranyl group, a quinolinyl group, a substituted quinolinyl group, a pyrrolyl group, a substituted pyrrolyl group, a pyrrolidinyl group, a substituted pyrrolidinyl group, a piperidinyl group, or a substituted piperidinyl group.
 4. The catalyst composition of claim 1, wherein the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound has formula (IIb):

wherein, in formula (IIb): M is Ti, Zr, or Hf; X¹ and X² independently are a monoanionic ligand; R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) independently are a halide, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group; L is a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylene group; and D is a chemical group comprising at least one of nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur.
 5. The catalyst composition of claim 4, wherein: R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) independently are a methyl group, ethyl group, propyl group, butyl group, pentyl group, hexyl group, propenyl group, butenyl group, pentenyl group, hexenyl group, phenyl group, tolyl group, benzyl group, trimethylsilyl group, triisopropylsilyl group, triphenylsilyl group, allyldimethylsilyl group, CF₃, or Cl; L is a C₂ to C₁₅ hydrocarbylene group; and D is —N(CH₃)₂, —P(CH₃)₂, —N(CH₂CH₃)₂, —P(CH₂CH₃)₂, —N(Ph)₂, —P(Ph)₂, —OCH₃, —SCH₃, —OCH₂CH₃, —SCH₂CH₃, —OPh, or —SPh.
 6. The catalyst composition of claim 1, wherein the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound is:

or a combination thereof.
 7. The catalyst composition of claim 1, wherein: the solid oxide comprises silica, alumina, silica-alumina, silica-coated alumina, aluminum phosphate, aluminophosphate, heteropolytungstate, titania, zirconia, magnesia, boria, zinc oxide, a mixed oxide thereof, or any mixture thereof; and the electron-withdrawing anion comprises sulfate, bisulfate, fluoride, chloride, bromide, iodide, fluorosulfate, fluoroborate, phosphate, fluorophosphate, trifluoroacetate, triflate, fluorozirconate, fluorotitanate, phospho-tungstate, or any combination thereof.
 8. The catalyst composition of claim 1, wherein the co-catalyst comprises an aluminoxane compound, an organoboron or organoborate compound, an ionizing ionic compound, an organoaluminum compound, an organozinc compound, an organomagnesium compound, an organolithium compound, or any combination thereof.
 9. The catalyst composition of claim 1, wherein the catalyst composition comprises: (i) an N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound having formula (IIa); (ii) a solid oxide treated with an electron-withdrawing anion; and (iii) an organoaluminum compound; wherein the organoaluminum compound comprises trimethylaluminum, triethylaluminum, tri-n-propylaluminum, tri-n-butylaluminum, triisobutylaluminum, tri-n-hexylaluminum, tri-n-octylaluminum, diisobutylaluminum hydride, diethylaluminum ethoxide, diethylaluminum chloride, or any combination thereof.
 10. The catalyst composition of claim 4, wherein, in formula (IIb): M is Zr or Hf; X¹ and X² independently are a halide or a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group; L is a C₁ to C₁₀ alkylene group; and D is —N(CH₃)₂, —P(CH₃)₂, —N(CH₂CH₃)₂, —P(CH₂CH₃)₂, —N(Ph)₂, —P(Ph)₂, —OCH₃, —SCH₃, —OCH₂CH₃, —SCH₂CH₃, —OPh, or —SPh.
 11. The catalyst composition of claim 10, wherein: R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) independently are a C₁ to C₅ alkyl group; L is a C₂ to C₅ alkylene group; the activator-support comprises fluorided alumina, chlorided alumina, bromided alumina, sulfated alumina, fluorided silica-alumina, chlorided silica-alumina, bromided silica-alumina, sulfated silica-alumina, fluorided silica-zirconia, chlorided silica-zirconia, bromided silica-zirconia, sulfated silica-zirconia, fluorided silica-titania, fluorided silica-coated alumina, sulfated silica-coated alumina, phosphated silica-coated alumina, or any combination thereof; and the catalyst composition comprises a co-catalyst.
 12. The catalyst composition of claim 11, wherein: the activator-support comprises fluorided alumina, sulfated alumina, fluorided silica-alumina, sulfated silica-alumina, fluorided silica-coated alumina, sulfated silica-coated alumina, or any combination thereof; and the co-catalyst comprises an organoaluminum compound.
 13. A process for producing a product, the process comprising: contacting a catalyst composition and an alpha olefin monomer comprising a C₄ to C₆₀ alpha olefin to produce the product, the catalyst composition comprising: (i) an N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound having formula (IIa):

wherein: M is Ti, Zr, or Hf; X¹ and X² independently are a monoanionic ligand; each R^(B) and R^(C) independently is a halide, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ halogenated hydrocarbyl group, a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarboxy group, or a C₁ to C₃₆ hydrocarbylsilyl group, wherein p and q independently are 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4; and L is a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylene group; and D is a chemical group comprising at least one of nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur; (ii) an activator-support comprising a solid oxide treated with an electron-withdrawing anion; and (iii) optionally, a co-catalyst.
 14. The process of claim 13, wherein the alpha olefin monomer comprises a C₆ to C₁₄ normal alpha olefin.
 15. The process of claim 13, wherein the product has a M_(w) in a range from 2,000 to 150,000 g/mol.
 16. The process of claim 13, wherein: the catalyst composition comprises a co-catalyst; and the N,N-bis[2-hydroxidebenzyl]amine compound has formula (IIb):

wherein, in formula (IIb): M is Zr or Hf; X¹ and X² independently are a halide or a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group; R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) independently are a halide, a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbyl group, or a C₁ to C₁₈ hydrocarbylsilyl group; L is a C₁ to C₁₀ alkylene group; and D is —N(CH₃)₂, —P(CH₃)₂, —N(CH₂CH₃)₂, —P(CH₂CH₃)₂, —N(Ph)₂, —P(Ph)₂, —OCH₃, —SCH₃, —OCH₂CH₃, —SCH₂CH₃, —OPh, or —SPh.
 17. The process of claim 16, wherein: the alpha olefin monomer comprises a C₄ to C₂₀ alpha olefin; and the activator-support comprises fluorided alumina, chlorided alumina, bromided alumina, sulfated alumina, fluorided silica-alumina, chlorided silica-alumina, bromided silica-alumina, sulfated silica-alumina, fluorided silica-zirconia, chlorided silica-zirconia, bromided silica-zirconia, sulfated silica-zirconia, fluorided silica-titania, fluorided silica-coated alumina, sulfated silica-coated alumina, phosphated silica-coated alumina, or any combination thereof.
 18. The process of claim 17, wherein: the alpha olefin monomer comprises a C₆ to C₁₄ normal alpha olefin; the product has a M_(w) in a range from 3,500 to 75,000 g/mol; the activator-support comprises fluorided alumina, sulfated alumina, fluorided silica-alumina, sulfated silica-alumina, fluorided silica-coated alumina, sulfated silica-coated alumina, or any combination thereof; the co-catalyst comprises an organoaluminum compound; X¹ and X² independently are a halide, methyl, benzyl, or phenyl; R^(B1), R^(B2), R^(C1), and R^(C2) independently are a C₁ to C₅ alkyl group; and L is a C₂ to C₅ alkylene group. 